An Alabama advance directive is a form that allows a person (the “principal”) to authorize an agent (the “health care proxy”) to make health care and end-of-life treatment decisions on their behalf. The selected health care agent will only be granted authority in the event that the principal can no longer speak for themselves due to illness, injury, or permanent unconsciousness. The agent must always act in the best interest of the principal and in accordance with the instructions listed in their living will.

Agent’s Duties – § 22-8A-11

Laws – Title 22, Chapter 8A (Termination of Life Support Procedures)

Signing Requirements (§ 22-8A-4(4)) – Two (2) Witnesses

Statutory Form – § 22-8A-4

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State Definition

Statute – § 22-8A-3(3)

“A writing executed in accordance with Section 22-8A-4 which may include a living will, the appointment of a health care proxy, or both such living will and appointment of a health care proxy.”

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Registering

Laws – § 22-8A-14

An Alabama advance directive may be registered by filing with the individual’s Judge of probate of the county in which they reside. The fee for filing is $5.