The Federal Government mandated the formation of the Citizens Review Panel (CRP) in 1999 for the purpose of providing an opportunity for citizens to aid in ensuring that states meet goals of protecting children from abuse and neglect by evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges in the child welfare delivery system. The CRP on Child Fatalities meets quarterly to review and examine the identified cases of child abuse and neglect that have occurred within a given year. At the end of the calendar year, the Panel compiles their findings and recommendations in a report that is presented to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for their knowledge and consideration in hopes of improving the child welfare system in Michigan.

Many of the people who serve on the Child Death State Advisory Team also participate in the Citizen Review Panel on Child Fatalities.