The caseworker should involve the child’s biological parents in the funeral arrangements to the maximum extent possible, even if parental rights have been terminated, if the caseworker determines doing so is appropriate. For example, parental involvement:

 •  may not be appropriate if rights have been terminated and the child was in a pre-consummated adoptive placement; or

 •  could be appropriate if a parent has remained in contact and the child was in a placement not intended to be permanent.

Regardless of legal status, a parent may wish to help with arrangements, express preferences, and contribute resources to cover the costs of a child’s funeral. The caseworker may not ask the biological parents to pay for all or some of the funeral expenses. However, parents may contribute directly to the funeral home if they so choose.

The caseworker must document in the child’s case record the:

 •  date the caseworker spoke with the parents;

 •  content of the discussions;

 •  outcome; and

•  date the parents responded.