skip to main content

Spouse vs Partner Funeral Priority — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateLegal & Ethical FrameworkSpouse vs Partner Funeral PrioritySCE Palliative Medicine

A 55‑year‑old man with advanced cancer dies. His estranged wife (from whom he is separated but not divorced) and his long‑term partner (with whom he has lived for 10 years) both claim authority over funeral arrangements. Who has legal priority?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — The estranged wife has legal priority as she remains the legal spouse

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as B · B = shown as D · A = shown as E

In the UK, a legally married spouse retains priority in funeral and estate matters over an unmarried partner, regardless of cohabitation duration or emotional separation. Unmarried ‘common law’ partners have no automatic legal rights in these areas. The intestacy succession order also gives the spouse precedence as next of kin. The estranged wife—being still legally married—therefore holds authority over funeral arrangements. Options A, C, D and E are incorrect because they ignore statutory legal status and relevant UK legal frameworks.

Reference: GOV.UK legal responsibilities of marriage; GOV.UK intestacy order of priority; both current and authoritative