When a family wants their deceased member cremated, they are instructed to choose a funeral home to oversee the procedure. The costs are worked out with the funeral home however cremation permits are purchased from the Medical Examiner Office by the funeral home.

When the death certificate has been completed the funeral home works with the Medical Examiner Office to complete the appropriate paperwork. The Medical Examiner Office must review two documents (i.e. death certificate and cremation permit) and if the information is complete and accurate, the cremation permit is signed and returned to funeral home to proceed with the disposition. The funeral homes work with crematories of their choosing and then work with the family on the cost involved.