What is required if a non-heir wishes to remove remains?

In California, when a non-heir wishes to remove remains, it is essential to obtain written consent from all known heirs. This requirement is in place to ensure that the rights of the deceased's family are respected and to prevent unauthorized actions that could lead to legal disputes. The written consent serves as a formal acknowledgment from the heirs that they agree to the removal of the remains, thereby protecting the cemetery and the individual seeking the removal from potential legal issues.

Obtaining such consent emphasizes the importance of family rights and the ethical considerations in handling human remains. When heirs are involved, it ensures that the process is carried out with dignity and respect for the deceased's wishes and family dynamics. This legal requirement reflects the state’s regulations surrounding the treatment of human remains and the respect owed to individuals and their families in matters of burial and exhumation.