Except in certain special cases, embalming is not required by law.  Embalming may be necessary, however, if you select certain funeral arrangements, such as a funeral with a viewing.  If you do not want embalming, you usually have the right to choose an arrangement that does not require you to pay for it, such as direct cremation or immediate burial.
Embalming is always necessary when shipping the deceased over state lines or internationally.
Our charge for embalming includes bathing, dressing and casketing of the deceased, as well as basic hairstyling (special hairstyles not included).