Georgia Living Will Requirements

Posted on: May 16th, 2023 by EOS Healthcare Marketing

According to the Georgia Code, a living will is a written directive instructing a physician to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining procedures in the event of a coma, terminal condition, or a persistent vegetative state. The purpose of a living will is to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering and to protect a patient’s dignity at the end of life. Anyone of sound mind may execute a living will, regardless of physical condition, as long as the person is of sound mind and capable of understanding the living will. 

What are the Specific Requirements for a Living Will in Georgia?

The requirements for a living will vary in each state, though in Georgia, these are the specific requirements to follow: 

• The living will must be signed by two witnesses. Witnesses cannot be anyone directly involved in your health care or anyone who is an heir or beneficiary. Witnesses need to be at least 18 years old, and no witness can simultaneously be named as your healthcare agent. 
• You must be 14 or older to create a will in Georgia.
• The will must be written.
• The testator must sign the will. 
• You must be of sound mind, fully capable of understanding the living will document. 

How to Create a Living Will in Georgia

• Understand the purpose and requirements of a living will before you make one. 
• Determine your treatment preferences in the event that you have a terminal medical condition or you are in a state of permanent unconsciousness. 
• Should one be needed, a living will allows you to nominate a person to be your guardian. 
• You will need the appropriate signatures on your living will. You will need your signature as well as the signatures of two witnesses. 
• Have several copies of your living will be made, one to keep for yourself and several to hand out to important people like family members and doctors. Keep some documentation on your person indicating that you have a living will, along with the phone numbers of family members or others who have access to the living will. 

Deciding to create a living will is no easy task. However, a living will allows us to retain control over our medical care, even if we can no longer communicate our wishes. This document helps us and our families rest easier, knowing we will receive the care we wish for. It’s essential to fully understand the requirements for a living will in Georgia. If you have any questions regarding those requirements, please contact My Living Wishes. We are here to help you learn how to create a living will.