California Code, Government Code - GOV § 27461

In order to inter decently the body of the deceased, the coroner may apply to a judge of the superior court of his county for an order permitting him to: (a) sell summarily any personal property belonging to the deceased, (b) withdraw any money that the deceased has on deposit with any bank, and (c) collect any indebtedness or claim that is owing or due the deceased.

If upon the application it appears to the court by competent evidence that the total value of the estate of the deceased is less than seventy-five dollars ($75), the judge shall make an order granting the application, and there shall be no administration upon the estate of the deceased unless additional estate is found or discovered. No notice of the application need be given and no fee shall be charged by the clerk of the court or coroner for the filing of the application or for any duty or service connected therewith. Upon the sale of the personal property of the deceased or the collection of any money, claim, or indebtedness by the coroner, he shall use the money for expenses of the funeral of the deceased.