A living will, despite its name, isn’t related to the division of your assets after your passing. Instead, it’s a legal document that conveys your wishes for medical care if you become unable to communicate decisions yourself. It’s an essential part of estate planning, and the Newark Firm is here to help you navigate its complexities.
The Importance of a Living Will
Life is unpredictable, and certain circumstances, such as a severe accident or illness, can render you incapable of making medical decisions. A living will enable your loved ones and medical professionals to know what your preferences are regarding your treatment in these situations.
What Does a Living Will Cover?
The specifics of what a living will cover vary depending on your state’s laws, but generally, it can cover scenarios such as:
- Use of life-sustaining equipment like ventilators and dialysis machines
- Your wishes regarding resuscitation if your heart or breathing stops
- Preferences for or against tube feeding
- Organ and tissue donations
- Instructions on pain management and end-of-life comfort care
How to Create a Living Will
Creating a living will might seem daunting, but with proper guidance, it can be straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a living will:
- Research State Laws: Every state has different laws regarding living wills, so it’s crucial to understand the specific legal requirements in your state.
- Specify Your Medical Wishes: Clearly state your medical preferences for various scenarios, as outlined above.
- Select Your Healthcare Proxy: Choose someone you trust to act on your behalf and make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so. This person is often referred to as a healthcare proxy or power of attorney for healthcare.
- Draft the Document: With the help of legal professionals like those at the Newark Firm, draft your living will. It must be in writing and usually needs to be witnessed or notarized, or both, to be legally valid.
- Distribute Copies: Make sure your healthcare proxy, loved ones, and doctors have copies of your living will so they are aware of your wishes.
Revising Your Living Will
As life changes, your wishes and circumstances might change too. Regularly reviewing and updating your living will ensure it stays relevant. You should consider revising it after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a substantial change in health.
Conclusion
Creating a living will gives you control over your medical treatment in situations where you might not be able to communicate your wishes. It’s a key aspect of comprehensive estate planning and can bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones. The Newark Firm is here to guide you through the process, ensuring your living will accurately reflect your wishes and is legally sound. Do you need help creating or revising a living will? The experienced attorneys at the Newark Firm are ready to assist you. Contact us today at 866-230-7236 for a consultation.
Disclaimer
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Every situation is unique, so please consult a qualified attorney at the Newark Firm for personalized guidance about your situation.