For years I have wished my family could simply be told I was dead. Why is that illegal?

Question

Thank you ruby...but no, they don't have the right.

Answer 1

Simply you are not actually dead. There are strict meaning in the word death. Death is either medically death (i.e. without heart beat or brain-death or both , depending on what state you are in) or you are physically loss in an serious accident, e.g. shipwreck, plus government and your family failed to locate you for seven years or longer. Then, your family can apply to law court to declare your death.

Otherwise, whosoever said you are dead may lead to the crime of defraud.

Answer 2

What a really sad question.Obviously something has happened in your past for you to feel this way.But don't you think it would be more compassionate for your family if you just explained why you didn't want to have contact and them and then just move on with your life.Your family have a right to the truth whatever your reasons.