A South Carolina living will, or “Declaration of a Desire for a Natural Death,” is a document that dictates whether or not life-sustaining treatments should be administered to a patient who is unable to make their own informed decisions. Physicians will refer to this document once it has been determined that the patient is terminally ill or in a state of permanent unconsciousness. In addition to the use of a living will, it may further benefit the patient to authorize a health care agent to act on their behalf during their periods of mental incapacity. To designate an agent, the patient will need to draft a Medical Power of Attorney.

Laws – Title 44, Chapter 77

Signing Requirements (§ 44-77-40(2)) – Two (2) Witnesses and Notary Public

Statutory Form – § 44-77-50

State Definition

Statute – § 62-5-501(2)

“Declaration of a desire for a natural death” or “declaration” means a document executed in accordance with the South Carolina Death with Dignity Act or a similar document executed in accordance with the law of another state.