Who has the authority to order the disinterment of a dead human body?

The authority to order the disinterment of a dead human body typically resides with a court or a county medical examiner. This is primarily due to legal and regulatory considerations surrounding the handling of human remains, which includes ensuring proper protocols are followed to respect both the deceased and the wishes of the family. Courts often get involved in cases where there are disputes over burial arrangements, or when necessary for investigative purposes, such as in criminal investigations or to confirm the cause of death.

In many jurisdictions, funeral directors do not have the unilateral authority to disinter a body; they must comply with legal requirements and receive the necessary permissions from the appropriate authorities. While family members may express a desire to have a body disinterred, the final decision often falls outside their direct authority since the act is subject to public health regulations and legal guidelines that aim to protect the dignity of the deceased and the sentiments of the relatives. State authorities may have a role in the process, but they typically act based on court orders or directives from medical examiners. Thus, the court or county medical examiner holds the decisive power to authorize disinterment in a compliant and regulated manner.