Under what circumstances can a funeral director refuse to embalm a body?

A funeral director can refuse to embalm a body if the responsible person for the arrangements has not given consent. This is a fundamental aspect of ethical practice in the funeral profession. Consent is necessary because embalming is a significant procedure that alters the state of the body. It is essential for funeral directors to respect the wishes of the family and obtain appropriate permission before proceeding, as it involves legal and ethical obligations.

While circumstances like decomposition may complicate the embalming process, the decision not to proceed is fundamentally grounded in the lack of consent from the responsible party. Furthermore, factors such as payments and the director's workload do not establish valid legal grounds to refuse embalming. Consent is paramount, ensuring that the process aligns with the family's wishes and legal requirements.