Alabama § 22-19-47 - Powers, Duties and Liabilities Upon Death.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 22-19-47 — Powers, Duties and Liabilities Upon Death., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-19-47. Powers, Duties and Liabilities Upon Death.
(a) The donee may accept or reject the gift. If the donee accepts a gift of the entire body, he may, subject to the terms of the gift, authorize embalming and the use of the body in funeral services. If the gift is of a part of the body, the donee, upon the death of the donor and prior to embalming, shall cause the part to be removed without unnecessary mutilation. After removal of the part, custody or the remainder of the body vests in the surviving spouse, next of kin or other persons under obligations to dispose of the body.
(b) The time of death shall be determined by a physician who attends the donor at his death or, if none, the physician who certifies the death. The physician shall not participate in the procedures for removing or transplanting a part.
(c) A person who acts in good faith in accord with the terms of this article or with the anatomical gift laws of another state or a foreign country is not liable for damages in any civil action or subject to prosecution in any criminal proceeding for his act.
(d) The provisions of this article are subject to the laws of this state prescribing powers and duties with respect to autopsies.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 22-19-47
What does Code of Alabama § 22-19-47 cover?
Section 22-19-47 ("Powers, Duties and Liabilities Upon Death.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 22-19-47?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 22-19-47" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 22-19-47 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.