Funeral Wishes – Do I have to have a funeral? When thinking about whether to have a funeral, the reality is that it is a very emotive subject that some people just do not want to think about. However, as Laura Richardson recognises in her latest article, when it comes to your funeral wishes, you also need to account for what your family and loved ones want . . .

Most of us may not consider asking this question as a funeral of some kind is an expected event used to mark the end of life. However, there is no legal requirement in Braintree or anywhere in the UK to hold any type of funeral service. In fact, the only legal requirement regards the disposal of a dead body, which must be undertaken according to public health laws. A more useful way to answer this question may be to consider the reasons why most people hold a funeral following the death of a loved one:

Religious or cultural requirements

If you have particular religious or faith beliefs or if you wish to be buried on consecrated ground then your religion would usually set out the necessary requirements for any attached service or ritual.

Closure

A funeral is a way of symbolically marking your death in order to allow your loved ones to then move forward and gain some closure after your death by saying a final goodbye.

Paying final respects

Similarly, the occasion of a funeral is often used to share stories or discuss the life achievements of the deceased, which can be a positive way to honour their memory and allow mourners to give thanks for the deceased’s life.

Brings together family members

Bringing together mourners in one place can reignite or reinforce your loved ones’ support systems following your death, allowing your friends and family to support those closest to you after you pass on.

Religious support

If you are of a particular religion, then your funeral could offer religious or spiritual support to your loved ones at the difficult time after your death. This could provide reassurance or some meaning to your death, as well as support moving forward.

However, whether you would like your loved ones to hold a funeral service for you when you die, or if you would like your death marked in a different way, or perhaps not marked by any “event” at all, you can leave instructions regarding your wishes within your Will. Whilst these are not legally binding, you can also include an explanation for your decision which could help your loved ones understand your request. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your Will or your end-of-life wishes, contact Andrew Douglas Wills & Legal Services to arrange your free initial consultation. As specialists in Will writing and all associated end-of-life legal services, you can be sure that your wishes will be dealt with in a respectful and professional manner. Whether in Braintree or the surrounding Essex area, why not call today?

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