Living Will

A living will gives instructions on what medical measures to take once incapacitated. There are a variety of options when drafting a living will.  It is important to ensure that you wishes are both adequately reflected in the living will and that the form complies with the laws of your state. Sample wills downloaded online should be used only as a guideline used for informational purposes and you should always consult an attorney specializing in wills, trusts, estates, probate or other related field.

Advanced Health Care Directive

The most commonly understood living wills addresses health care instructions which limit treatment in a variety of circumstances, known also as an advance health care directive.  A properly executed personal directive can prevent doctors from providing costly or burdensome treatment which would normally be required under state ethics guidelines.

Power of Attorney

A living will can create the power of attorney whereby the individual appoints someone to make legally binding decisions on their behalf if incapacitated. The “power” to make decisions may be limited to decisions listed in the living will or expanded to include any decision which can be designated by law.