How is a dead human body classified legally?

A dead human body is classified legally as quasi property. This classification acknowledges that while the deceased body is not treated as ordinary property, it is afforded certain legal protections and rights. The concept of quasi property indicates that the body can be subject to rights of disposition, which means that the deceased's next of kin typically have the legal authority to determine the burial or cremation arrangements.

This classification balances societal interests in upholding respect for the dead, recognizing the control of the next of kin over the remains, and acknowledging that some legal aspects apply as they would to property. Quasi property laws help to ensure the dignity of the deceased while also respecting the emotional and legal rights of their loved ones to manage the body according to personal and cultural wishes.

Other classifications, such as common property or public property, do not accurately reflect the nuances involved with the rights and responsibilities surrounding a deceased body. Understanding the designation of a dead human body as quasi property is crucial for funeral service professionals as it guides legal compliance and ethical practices in the handling and disposition of human remains.