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When there is no one left ...
A lonely grave candle? A light of hope!
A person dies and no one takes care of the funeral. A sad thought. Fortunately, in Mainz, no one has to forego a dignified final resting place. Even if they have no relatives. Here you will find all the necessary information about what is known as a 'statutory burial'.
Who takes care of the funeral when there are no relatives left?
We will take care of the organization and the actual funeral. The costs will be covered by the city of Mainz.
What does a 'legal burial' in Mainz actually look like?
As a rule, the burial takes place in a communal urn grave field and a name plate is affixed to the corresponding memorial. If there are important reasons against cremation (faith/religion, last will and testament), these will of course be taken into account.
Where is the burial?
At the Waldfriedhof cemetery in Mombach. However, if there is a last will and testament, an existing (family) grave, or friends credibly assure that the deceased wanted to be buried in another cemetery, then we will of course check whether this is possible.
Will there be a funeral service?
A farewell ceremony in a funeral hall is not part of a statutory burial. However, the urn/coffin is accompanied to the grave by a clergyman. And even those who did not belong to any denomination or whose religious affiliation could not be determined are not alone on their final journey.
How many public burials are there in Mainz each year?
The figures are in the mid double digits, so fortunately they are manageable.
Who actually checks whether there are really no more relatives?
We take care of that. We conduct research in all directions. Possible sources include authorities and government agencies, but also the personal environment of the deceased. In other words: friends and acquaintances, neighbors, and other companions.
How long does it take?
It could well take several weeks. It depends on how many clues there are and, above all, where investigations need to be carried out. Worldwide investigations are no exception, including language barriers.
What happens if relatives are actually found?
We will then inform them immediately and ask them to arrange the funeral. After a certain period of time, we will send them a final reminder. We will then ensure that the deceased is laid to rest. The costs will, of course, be invoiced to the relatives.
Who then has to pay and what exactly?
The immediate relatives are responsible for payment. And in the following order: spouse – children – grandchildren – parents – siblings. Not only the funeral itself must be paid for, but also the organization. In other words: our work.
What about possible heirs?
If there is a last will and testament, then the heir would indeed be liable for payment. However, this would only apply if they accept the inheritance. If they renounce it, the immediate relatives are required to pay.
And what if the heir is a relative?
In this case, the funeral costs must be covered even if the inheritance is refused.
What if the will is not opened until after the funeral?
In this case, the immediate family members pay for the funeral. If they are not included in the will, they can reclaim the money from the heir.
