Do you have one? I suggest you do. Too often people confuse living wills with their personal wills, which describe how they want their assets distributed when they die. They’re completely different documents. A living will describes what type of medical and life-sustaining treatment you expect if you’re terminally ill or have been injured and your prognosis is poor AND you are unable to speak.
What efforts do you want the medical team to take to prolong your life? That’s the main question this document answers. In most cases, you don’t need a lawyer to prepare a living will. Some hospitals and physicians provide information on how to prepare a living will. Or you can download a form off the web. Most states require someone to witness your signature. This document does not appoint someone to act on your behalf. That’s where the medical power of attorney steps in. Watch for DocHandal’s next blog.
As always Doc welcomes your comments!
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