Special circumstances
What if the family is fighting over the body?
Short answer
California law has a priority order for who controls disposition. If two people have equal priority (such as two adult children), they must agree. If they cannot, a court can decide — but this can take longer than is practical. Document everything…
What this usually means
California law has a priority order for who controls disposition. If two people have equal priority (such as two adult children), they must agree. If they cannot, a court can decide — but this can take longer than is practical. Document everything and consult a probate attorney quickly.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.