Louisiana § RS 13:5716 - Cremation of bodies
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5716 — Cremation of bodies, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 13:5716. Cremation of bodies
A. If the cremation of a body is requested, the funeral director shall immediately notify the coroner who has jurisdiction in the death.
B. If, after the necessary investigation, the coroner is satisfied that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, the coroner shall issue a permit for cremation.
C. If the investigation reveals suspicious circumstances or the reasonable probability of the commission of a crime, the coroner shall deny the permit until the coroner's post-mortem examination and evidence collection is completed. After completion, the coroner may issue a permit for cremation.
D. Upon completion of the coroner's post-mortem examination and evidence collection, the coroner shall release the body to the family or friends for disposition in accordance with R.S. 13:5715. In any case under coroner jurisdiction in which the body cannot be released within thirty days of death, the coroner shall notify in writing the person or persons with the right to dispose of human remains under R.S. 8:655 the reasons for any delay in release of the body.
Amended by Acts 1952, No. 151, §2. Acts 1984, No. 570, §1; Redesignated from R.S. 33:1566 pursuant to Acts 2011, No. 248, §3; Acts 2020, No. 113, §1; Acts 2023, No. 332, §1.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 13:5716
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5716 cover?
Section RS 13:5716 ("Cremation of bodies") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Louisiana § RS 13:5716?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 13:5716" (Louisiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Louisiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.
How does Louisiana § RS 13:5716 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.