Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington
somene other than next of Kin claimed my father's body at the scene of his death
A woman who was known to my father claimed to be his daughter, when he was found dead in his motor home at a camp site. She had been borrowing money from him, and told the police she was his daughter, said she didn't want an autopsy, and sent him to a funeral home, and was planning a funeral. My older brother and I were known to this person, and her room mate, she never told the police about us. We didn't find out about our fahter until the next day.
My question is, knowing he had children, and knowing how to contact us, was she acting legally in claiming his body and mis-representing herself to the police? She stole things from his motor home, and waited a full day to let us know he was gone. She has now disconnected her phone number, and left the state of Washington, so that we can not reach her.
Lorene
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: somene other than next of Kin claimed my father's body at the scene of his death
I assume you found out in time to handle the arrangements for your father's funeral. I'm not sure the relevant question is whether she had a right to claim your father's body, but what laws has she broken? You should contact the police in the city/sheriff in the county where your father lived.
Re: somene other than next of Kin claimed my father's body at the scene of his death
I agree with Mr. Nidich. You need to contact the police or the sheriff who responded to the report of your father's death and make your own report to that officer. You should confirm receipt of your report with that agency by getting a case number. You should have an opportunity to speak with the detective assigned. Ask whether or not the officer is going to refer the matter to the prosecutor.
You also need to contact his financial institutions and get them a copy of his death certificate.
Best of luck with this problem. Elizabeth Powell
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
