Georgia § 53-9-3 - Hearing; finding of death.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-9-3 — Hearing; finding of death., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-9-3. Hearing; finding of death.
At the hearing the probate court shall hear such evidence as shall be offered for the purpose of ascertaining whether a diligent and reasonable effort has been made to locate the missing individual and, if appropriate, such evidence that is offered to show that the missing individual is dead or alive. No person shall be disqualified from testifying by reason of being the spouse of the missing individual or having an interest in the estate of the missing individual. If the court finds that a diligent and reasonable effort has been made to locate the missing individual and that a presumption of death has been established and has not been rebutted as provided under subsection (a) of Code Section 53-9-1 or that death has been proved by a preponderance of the evidence as provided in subsection (b) of Code Section 53-9-1, the court shall enter an order finding that the missing individual is dead and specifying the date of death. (Code 1981, § 53-9-3 , enacted by Ga. L. 1996, p. 504, § 10.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 53-9-3
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-9-3 cover?
Section 53-9-3 ("Hearing; finding of death.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. 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 Georgia § 53-9-3?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-9-3" (Georgia). 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 Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 53-9-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia 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 Georgia.