Georgia § 53-5-24 - Unavailability of subscribing witnesses.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-5-24 — Unavailability of subscribing witnesses., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53-5-24. Unavailability of subscribing witnesses.
When it appears that a will cannot be proved as otherwise provided by law because at the time the will is offered for probate one or more of the subscribing witnesses to the will is dead or mentally or physically incapable of testifying or otherwise inaccessible, the court may admit the will to probate in common or solemn form upon the testimony in person or by affidavit or by deposition of at least two credible disinterested witnesses that the signature to the will is that of the individual whose will it purports to be or upon other sufficient proof of such signature. This Code section shall not preclude the court, in its discretion, from requiring, in addition, the testimony in person or by deposition of any available subscribing witness or proof of such other pertinent facts and circumstances as the court may deem necessary to admit the will to probate. (Code 1981, § 53-5-24 , enacted by Ga. L. 1996, p. 504, § 10.)
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 53-5-24
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-5-24 cover?
Section 53-5-24 ("Unavailability of subscribing witnesses.") 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 § 53-5-24?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 53-5-24" (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 § 53-5-24 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.