Living Will in Georgia
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Georgia requires two witnesses or notarization; living wills are called "living wills" and take effect when you lose decision-making capacity.
How Georgia treats Living Will
Georgia recognizes living wills under state law requiring your signature plus two witnesses or notarization. Witnesses cannot be your spouse, blood relative, or healthcare provider. Your living will becomes effective only when your physician determines you are unable to make medical decisions and you have a terminal condition or are in a persistent vegetative state. Georgia law allows you to refuse any life-sustaining treatment, including artificial nutrition and hydration.
The general definition of Living Will
A document stating your wishes about life-sustaining medical treatment if you become unable to communicate.
A living will (also called an advance directive) is a written statement of your medical preferences if you're ever in a coma, terminal illness, or unable to speak for yourself. You can specify whether you want life support, feeding tubes, or resuscitation. Doctors and family members use it to make decisions that honor your values when you cannot.
Read the full Living Will entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.