Who has the authority to make funeral arrangements if no will or representative exists?

In scenarios where an individual has passed away without a will or a designated representative, the authority to make funeral arrangements typically falls to the next of kin based on legally established priority. Florida law specifies a hierarchy for next of kin, usually starting with the spouse, followed by adult children, parents, siblings, and so on. This structure ensures that decisions are made by those who are closest to the deceased and are likely to understand their preferences, ensuring a respectful and personal farewell.

While friends, designated funeral coordinators, or even guardians of family pets may have good intentions, they generally do not have the legal standing to make decisions regarding funeral arrangements. The law is designed to prioritize those who have familial ties, as they are presumed to have a closer emotional connection and understanding of the deceased's wishes. Thus, in the absence of a will or a designated representative, the next of kin is clearly established as the authority to handle these arrangements.