Minnesota State Mortician Practice Exam

Which family member is listed third in the order of duty of disposition?

1. Adult sibling

2. Adult child

3. Legal spouse

4. Grandparent

The correct answer is: Adult child

The correct answer is that an adult child is listed third in the order of duty of disposition. In the context of mortuary practice and the legal responsibilities regarding the disposition of a deceased person's remains, each family member has a specific order of priority based on legal statutes and common practice. The legal spouse typically holds the highest priority, being first in line to make decisions about the disposition of the remains, as they have a primary legal and emotional relationship with the deceased. Following the spouse, the adult children are usually recognized as the next family members with the right to make these decisions, reflecting their direct lineage and close relationship to the deceased. The placement of adult children in the third position is significant because it recognizes their role as immediate relatives who are potentially able to take on the responsibility of making those important decisions about the deceased’s remains. This order is important for ensuring that the wishes of the decedent are respected and that the process of disposition aligns with familial ties, providing a clear hierarchy in case there are disagreements among relatives. Meanwhile, adult siblings and grandparents hold lower priority in this order, as they are not as directly related to the decision-making process regarding the final arrangements.