ABA Family Legal Guide

Health-Care Law

Specific Issues in Health Care

Organ Donation

What happens if I don't make a decision about organ donation?

If you did not indicate whether you want your organs donated, then your family will make that decision for you when you die. Your family will decide whether to donate all or part of your body. Usually, your doctor will seek a decision from your spouse first. If you do not have a spouse, the doctor will turn to your adult son or daughter. If you do not have children, the doctor will get a decision from your parent, your adult brother or sister, a grandparent, or your guardian.