Embalming Questions

What is the purpose of embalming?

Embalming sanitizes and preserves the deceased, slows down the decomposition process and enhances the appearance of someone that may have had a traumatic death or illness. Embalming makes it possible to lengthen the time between death and the final disposition, thus allowing family members time to arrange and participate in the type of service most comforting to them.

Is embalming required by law?

Except in certain special cases, embalming is not required by law. Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a funeral with viewing. If you do not want embalming, you have the right to choose an arrangement that does not require embalming, such as direct cremation or immediate burial. However embalming may be required when a deceased is to be transformed from one state to another.