West Virginia § 16-19-5 - 16-19-5. Manner of making anatomical gift before donor’s death.

Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 16-19-5 — 16-19-5. Manner of making anatomical gift before donor’s death., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16-19-5. 16-19-5. Manner of making anatomical gift before donor’s death.

(a) A donor may make an anatomical gift:

(1) By authorizing a statement or symbol to be imprinted on his or her driver’s license, identification card, voter registration card, or hunting or fishing license indicating that he or she has made an anatomical gift;

(2) In a will;

(3) During a terminal illness or injury, by any form of communication addressed to at least two adults, at least one of whom is a disinterested witness; or

(4) As provided in subsection (b) of this section.

(b) (1) A donor or a person authorized by §16-9-4 of this code may make a gift by:

(A) A donor card or other record signed by the donor or the authorized person; or

(B) Authorizing a statement or symbol indicating that the donor has made an anatomical gift to be included on a donor registry.

(2) If the donor or the authorized person is physically unable to sign a record, another individual may sign at the direction of the donor or the authorized person if the document of gift:

(A) Is witnessed and signed by at least two adults, at least one of whom is a disinterested witness; and

(B) Contains a statement that it has been signed and witnessed as required by paragraph (A) of this subdivision.

(c) Revocation, suspension, expiration, or cancellation of a driver’s license or identification card upon which an anatomical gift is indicated does not invalidate the gift.

(d) An anatomical gift made by will takes effect upon the donor’s death regardless of whether the will is probated. Invalidation of the will after the donor’s death does not invalidate the gift.

Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 16-19-5

What does West Virginia Code § 16-19-5 cover?

Section 16-19-5 ("16-19-5. Manner of making anatomical gift before donor’s death.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. 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 West Virginia § 16-19-5?

A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 16-19-5" (West Virginia). 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 West Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.

How does West Virginia § 16-19-5 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia 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 West Virginia.