After a VAD, these next steps can be expected

After VAD

Procedure and timeline outlined below:

Swiss authorities

  • After a VAD, the local Swiss authorities will be called. They will inspect the situation and confirm that the VAD was conducted according to Swiss regulations. They are generally very friendly and sensitive, understanding that those present have just lost a loved one under difficult circumstances.
  • The individual chosen to verify the deceased person’s identity through signature must be physically present for a moment, solely for co-signing the relevant document together with the Medical Doctor. The choice to be present during or after the VAD is entirely up to the individual. All accompanying family members/friends are free to decide whether or not they wish to be present during the Voluntary Assisted Dying.

Funeral home timeline and death certificate

  • Once the formalities are complete, the funeral home will retrieve the deceased, and the person’s ashes will be available for pickup approximately 10 working days after the death. Ask for alternatives besides the urn to be curriered home.
  • In the weeks following a VAD, two documents will be mailed to your family or appointed person:
    1. The funeral agency will mail the death certificate and email a scanned copy. The death certificate is issued by the Swiss authorities. This procedure can take up to ten weeks.
    2. The Canton (the state where the VAD took place) will sometimes send an ‘order to dismiss’ confirming that no crime was committed. This document is purely a formality and has no other purpose.
    3. All concerns regarding the funeral agency and the death certificate, Wicky and Partner are responsible.
      Info@wicky-partner.ch
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