Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

Is it illegal to sell human ashes to another person

My father is deceased. He donated his body to science. He requested to be cremated after ''Genesis Science'' was done with his body, this was also part of the donation program. My step-brother and his mother (my step-mother)have now received my father's remains - his ashes.

It was my father's dying wish and request to have the ashes divided among his children and his wife.

Now, my step-brother and my step-mother are requesting $10,000.00 from each of my sisters to obtain our share of my deceased father's ashes. My step-brother was not clear whether he wanted $10,000.00 from each of us or collectively from all three of us.

IS IT LEGAL TO SELL HUMAN REMAINS, HUMAN ASHES, TO ANOTHER PERSON? IS THIS CONSIDERED EXTORTION?


Asked on 9/28/05, 11:42 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
H.M. Torrey The Law Offices of H.M. Torrey

Re: Is it illegal to sell human ashes to another person

this situation certainly is unique and interesting! we have never received a post quite like yours, but it definitely is food for legal thought in many aspects. we completely empathize with your situation, and may be of assistance if we can get some additional facts regarding the case, especially if there was a will in place. feel free to contact us directly today.

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Answered on 9/28/05, 2:58 pm


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