Can a funeral director be held liable for negligence in Missouri?

In Missouri, a funeral director can indeed be held liable for negligence if their failure to adhere to accepted standards of care results in harm to a client or the deceased. This aligns with general principles of tort law, where negligence is determined by whether an individual breached a duty of care that caused injury or damage.

Funeral directors, like other professionals, are expected to perform their responsibilities according to established industry standards. If a funeral director fails to provide appropriate care or services—such as ensuring the proper handling of remains, securing necessary permits, or communicating effectively with the family—they may be found negligent if such failures lead to demonstrable harm.

This liability is not limited to criminal cases or protected under state law in a blanket manner. While there may be legal protections in specific contexts, they do not eliminate the potential for claimants to seek civil remedies for negligent actions. Thus, the correct understanding aligns with the idea that negligence encompasses a duty of care that, when violated, can lead to legal accountability for funeral directors in Missouri.