If kin cannot agree on disposition, what action may be taken?

When kin cannot agree on the disposition of a deceased individual, the appropriate course of action is to file a petition with the district court. This legal process is designed to resolve disputes regarding the handling of a deceased person's remains, as the court has the authority to make a binding decision on the matter.

In situations where family members or heirs cannot reach a consensus regarding how to proceed, especially regarding burial or cremation, the district court can step in to interpret state laws and family relationships to establish the rightful authority for making decisions. This process ensures that the wishes of the deceased, if they are known, are honored where possible and that the interests of the surviving relatives are fairly considered.

This legal remedy avoids potential conflicts that may arise if individuals were to unilaterally decide to proceed with a burial or other disposition without consensus or court guidance, which could lead to further disputes or emotional distress among surviving family members.