Georgia § 31-21-44 - 1. Abuse of dead body.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 31-21-44 — 1. Abuse of dead body., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-21-44. 1. Abuse of dead body.
A person commits the offense of abuse of a dead body if, prior to interment and except as otherwise authorized by law, such person willfully defaces a dead body while the dead body is lying in state or is prepared for burial, showing, or cremation whether in a funeral establishment, place of worship, home, or other facility for lying in state or at a grave site. The lawful presence of the offender at a place where the dead body is abused shall not be a defense to a prosecution under this Code section. A person who is providing care to another person, other than in a hospital, either on a permanent or temporary basis, shall, upon the death of such person while in such person's care, be required to notify a local law enforcement agency or coroner or a relative of such deceased person within six hours of the discovery of the death of such person. Any person who intentionally violates the provisions of this paragraph shall commit the offense of abuse of a dead body. Any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than three years. (Code 1981, § 31-21-44.1 , enacted by Ga. L. 1995, p. 569, § 1; Ga. L. 1997, p. 1460, § 1; Ga. L. 1998, p. 128, § 31.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 31-21-44
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 31-21-44 cover?
Section 31-21-44 ("1. Abuse of dead body.") 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 § 31-21-44?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 31-21-44" (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 § 31-21-44 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.