American Samoa § 13.0801 - Appointment of a health care representative.
Full text of American Samoa American Samoa Code Annotated § 13.0801 — Appointment of a health care representative., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13.0801. Appointment of a health care representative.
(a) A written document appointing a representative to make health care decisions for a principal shall be signed by the principal in the presence of two subscribing witnesses. A principal unable to sign the instrument may, in the presence of witnesses, direct that another person not a witness to the instrument sign the principal’s name as required herein. An exact copy of the instrument shall be provided to the representative. (b) The person appointed as representative shall not act as witness to the execution of the instrument appointing the health care representative. Both witnesses must be at least 18 years of age, and at least one person who acts as a witness shall be neither the principal’s spouse nor relative by blood or adoption. (c) An instrument appointing a health care representative may also appoint an alternate representative provided the appointment is explicit. The alternate representative may assume his or her duties as representative for the principal if the original representative is unwilling or unable to perform his or her duties. The principal’s failure to appoint an alternate representative shall not invalidate the appointment of the original representative. (d) Unless the instrument states a time of termination, the appointment shall remain in effect until revoked by the principal. (e) A written appointment of a health care representative executed pursuant to this section establishes a rebuttable presumption of clear and convincing evidence of the principal’s appointment of the representative.
Source: official American Samoa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About American Samoa § 13.0801
What does American Samoa Code Annotated § 13.0801 cover?
Section 13.0801 ("Appointment of a health care representative.") is part of the American Samoa Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of American Samoa. 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 American Samoa § 13.0801?
A common citation format is "American Samoa Code Annotated § 13.0801" (American Samoa). 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 American Samoa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the American Samoa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed American Samoa attorney.
How does American Samoa § 13.0801 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in American Samoa 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 American Samoa.