Guides and resources
News, advice, and insights on funeral planning and funeral services
Suicide of a loved one: police investigation, autopsy and release of the body
The suicide of a loved one automatically triggers a police investigation and a forensic autopsy. These mandatory procedures extend the timeframe before burial and add an administrative burden to an already traumatic bereavement. This guide details the specific procedures, the parties involved and the support resources available.
Wills and pets: who will look after my dog?
In Switzerland, a pet cannot inherit directly as it has no legal personality. A legacy with obligation allows you to entrust your animal to a trusted person by transferring an amount to cover its needs. Foundations such as the SPA or the Nana Foundation also offer secure solutions.
Stillborn child: civil registration and maternity leave
The loss of a child before or during childbirth is a heartbreaking ordeal. Since 2023, Switzerland has allowed optional registration of stillborn children in civil records, offering official recognition of perinatal grief. This guide explains your rights regarding registration, maternity leave and funeral arrangements.
Are cardboard coffins allowed in Swiss crematoriums?
Cardboard coffins appeal due to their price and reduced ecological impact, but the majority of Swiss crematoriums refuse them for technical reasons. Between insufficient calorific value, anti-pollution filters and strict standards, this green option faces the reality of facilities in French-speaking Switzerland.
The funeral reception: venues, caterers and budget in Switzerland
The funeral reception is an essential moment of sharing after the funeral ceremony. This practical guide helps you organise this gathering: choice of venue, caterers, traditional Swiss menus and budget to plan per person.
Transforming ashes into diamonds: prices and Swiss manufacturers
Transforming the ashes of a loved one into a diamond is a memorial option gaining popularity in Switzerland. This unique scientific process creates an authentic commemorative jewel from the carbon contained in the ashes. Discover Swiss manufacturers, actual prices and the manufacturing process.
Can you scatter ashes in nature or your garden in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the law permits the scattering of ashes in nature without strict constraints, unlike many European countries. This freedom is accompanied by rules of propriety and respect, particularly concerning public places and private property.
Humusation and human composting in Switzerland: what does the law say?
Humusation, or human composting, is attracting growing interest in Switzerland for its ecological approach to death. But what about the legal framework? This article examines the current status of this practice, ongoing political motions and ecological alternatives already available.
Terminating Swisscom, Sunrise or Salt after a death: fees and procedure
After a death, terminating the deceased's telecom subscriptions is an essential administrative step to avoid unnecessary costs. Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt accept early termination upon presentation of the death certificate, generally without fees. This practical guide details the specific procedures for each operator and provides template letters.
Inheriting a firearm in Switzerland: acquisition permit and legal obligations
Inheriting a firearm in Switzerland involves specific legal obligations and a 6-month deadline to regularise the situation. This guide explains the mandatory procedures according to the weapon category, the available options (keep, sell, deactivate) and the penalties for non-compliance with the legislation.
What to do with the vehicle and number plates after a death?
After a death, heirs must manage the deceased's vehicle and number plates within strict deadlines. The procedures vary depending on whether the vehicle is transferred to the spouse, another heir or sold. This guide details the procedures with the Vehicle Registration Office and coordination with insurance.
Post-death cleaning and Diogenes syndrome: prices and companies
Post-death cleaning is not a simple housekeeping task: it requires specialised skills, protective equipment and strict sanitary protocols. This guide details the types of cleaning, the protocols used, the prices charged in Switzerland and the possibilities of coverage by household insurance.