PathAfter FAQ
Death Of A Child
Focused answers for people handling the first days, paperwork, and follow-up steps after a death in California.
Start checklistWeek 2–4 administration and California-specific questions
What do I do immediately after a child dies?Call 911. In California, the death of any child is investigated by law enforcement and the coroner regardless of circumstances — this is standard, not an accusation. Do not move the child before authorities arrive. Ask a trusted adult to be with…Will I be investigated after my child dies?Law enforcement will investigate. This is standard procedure in California for all child deaths. Cooperate fully. If you feel you are being treated as a suspect, you have the right to ask for a lawyer before continuing to answer questions. Most investigations…What is SIDS and how is it handled legally?Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion — it is determined after the coroner rules out other causes. The investigation process is the same as any child death. The coroner will typically examine the sleep environment and medical history. Most…What is the difference between SIDS and SUID?SUID is Sudden Unexpected Infant Death — an umbrella term for any sudden unexpected death of an infant. SIDS is one category under SUID. Other categories include accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. The coroner determines which category applies based on the…How do I handle a child's funeral differently?A child's funeral has no rules. Children can be buried or cremated. Many funeral homes have lower pricing for children — ask directly. Some nonprofit organizations provide free or reduced-cost funeral services for children. The National Children's Alliance and various local organizations…Is financial help available after a child's death?Some nonprofit organizations help with funeral costs for children. If the death involved a crime, the California Victim Compensation Board may help. If the death was due to a product defect or another party's negligence, a wrongful death attorney can advise on…How do I handle surviving siblings after a child dies?Tell them the truth in age-appropriate terms. Include them in the grieving process to the degree they want. Watch for changes in behavior, sleep, or school performance. A child therapist familiar with grief can help. Do not try to protect them from…What resources exist specifically for parents who lose a child?The Compassionate Friends (compassionatefriends.org) has chapters throughout California and offers peer support for bereaved parents. Still Standing Magazine (online community), Bereaved Parents of the USA, and many local hospital-based programs offer support specifically for parents.Is there a different process for a stillbirth vs. an infant death in California?A stillbirth (20 weeks or more gestation) in California requires a fetal death certificate filed with the county. Burial or cremation is required. Parents have all the same rights regarding disposition as with any death. A live birth followed by death requires…How do I handle the child's belongings?On your timeline. There is no right time. Some parents keep the room untouched for months or years. Others find it helpful to create a memory box and donate or store other items. Do what feels right for your family — and…