Maryland § 5-406
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-406, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-406.
(a) (1) A public officer who has control of a body immediately shall notify the chairman of the Board if, after a reasonable search, the public officer has not found a person who will take control of the body for its final disposition.
(2) Subject to the limitations imposed on nursing homes under § 10–214 of the Human Services Article, any other person who has control of a body may notify the Board if, after a reasonable search, the person has not found a person who will take control of the body for its final disposition.
(b) (1) Subject to the time limitations in this subsection, when the Board is notified of the existence of a body, the Board may remove the body to a morgue in Baltimore City that the Board designates for that purpose.
(2) If the person who notifies the Board can refrigerate the body suitably, the body may be removed only at the expiration of 72 hours after death.
(3) If the person who notifies the Board cannot refrigerate the body suitably, the body may be removed as soon as feasible after death, and, on arrival at the morgue, shall be refrigerated until the expiration of 72 hours after death.
(c) (1) On expiration of 72 hours after death, the body shall be under the exclusive control of the Board and may be embalmed.
(2) If the body is embalmed, it shall be embalmed in a proper manner by an individual whom the Board designates.
(3) Any relative or friend of the deceased may claim the body and, on payment to the Board of its cost of moving and embalming the body, shall receive it.
(4) The Board may waive its costs under this section upon a showing of hardship by the relative or friend.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-406
What does Maryland Code § 5-406 cover?
Section 5-406 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. 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 Maryland § 5-406?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-406" (Maryland). 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 Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 5-406 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland 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 Maryland.