Who gets priority in the right of disposition?

In Oklahoma, the right of disposition primarily belongs to the individual designated by the decedent prior to their death. If the decedent did not appoint anyone, the law establishes a hierarchy of individuals who have the right to make decisions regarding the disposition of remains.

The appointed representative takes precedence because they have been given the authority by the decedent, typically through a written document like a will or other legal instrument. This appointment signifies that the decedent entrusted this responsibility to that person, indicating their wishes should be honored first.

This hierarchy is crucial to ensure that the decedent's wishes are respected and adhered to, which is a fundamental principle in funeral and disposition law. It ultimately serves to avoid disputes among family members or other interested parties, as the person designated has the legal right to make those decisions.

The other roles, while they may have some claim under certain circumstances, follow a tiered system which prioritizes the decedent’s appointed choice. Understanding this framework helps ensure that funeral arrangements align with the personal wishes and directives of the deceased.