Georgia § 45-16-51 - Interment of unidentified human remains; disinterment for identification.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 45-16-51 — Interment of unidentified human remains; disinterment for identification., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-16-51. Interment of unidentified human remains; disinterment for identification.
The chief medical examiner shall be authorized to inter unidentified human remains after the peace officer in charge has exhausted all efforts in identifying such remains. Notwithstanding Code Section 45-16-45 , the chief medical examiner shall have the authority to disinter remains interred pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section when the chief medical examiner determines that further information can be obtained or further testing can be performed that may result in the identification of such remains. (Code 1981, § 45-16-51 , enacted by Ga. L. 2018, p. 253, § 1/SB 385.) Effective date. - This Code section became effective July 1, 2018. Cross references. - Cemetery and funeral services, T. 10, C. 14. Disposition of dead bodies, T. 31, C. 21. Permits for disposition, disinterment, and reinterment, § 31-10-20 .
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 45-16-51
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 45-16-51 cover?
Section 45-16-51 ("Interment of unidentified human remains; disinterment for identification.") 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 § 45-16-51?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 45-16-51" (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 § 45-16-51 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.