Why Every Adult Needs A Living Will
Understanding Living Wills: An Essential Component of Estate Planning
When it comes to planning your estate, understanding the various legal documents available is crucial. Among these, the "last will and testament," commonly known as a "will," is widely recognized. However, you might also come across another term: "living will." This article delves into what a living will entails, why it's essential, and how it differs from a traditional will.
What Is a Living Will?
A living will, also referred to as an advance healthcare directive, is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate your wishes. It specifically addresses critical decisions regarding life-sustaining treatments and end-of-life care. For instance, you can specify whether you want life support removed under certain circumstances, and your preferences regarding hydration and nutrition.
Beyond medical treatments, a living will can detail preferences about personal care, such as food choices and visitation rights during hospitalization. These instructions are invaluable for ensuring your wishes are honored during times when you cannot advocate for yourself.
Living Will vs. Last Will and Testament
While a last will and testament focuses on distributing your assets after death, a living will is concerned with your medical care during your lifetime, specifically during periods of incapacity. The last will addresses who receives your wealth and property, while the living will addresses how your medical treatment should be managed.
Living Will vs. Medical Power of Attorney
A crucial component of a living will is the medical power of attorney, where you appoint an agent to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This agent ensures your medical preferences, as outlined in your living will, are respected and implemented.
Importance of Having a Living Will
Having a living will is essential for several reasons:
Ensures Your Wishes are Honored: It guarantees that your medical treatment aligns with your desires, preventing any ambiguity or conflict among family members.
Reduces Family Stress: By clearly stating your preferences, you spare your loved ones from the burden of making difficult decisions during an emotionally challenging time.
Prevents Legal Battles: Without a living will, disagreements among family members could escalate into legal disputes over your medical care and decision-making authority.
Considerations About Online Living Wills
While online services offer templates for living wills and advance directives, these documents may not adequately address your unique circumstances and preferences. Professional guidance ensures your directives are comprehensive and legally sound, tailored to your specific needs and state laws.
How We Can Assist You
Our team specializes in estate planning and can help you create or review your living will and advance directives. We ensure your documents are up-to-date and effectively communicate your wishes to your healthcare providers and loved ones. Prompt action is crucial, as unexpected circumstances can arise at any time.
Take Action Today
Don't wait to plan for your future healthcare decisions. Contact us to schedule a consultation and safeguard your medical preferences with a legally binding living will. Call us today to start the process and gain peace of mind knowing your wishes will be respected when you need it most.
This article is a service of Zarda Law, S.C. We do not just draft documents; we ensure you make informed decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get financially organized and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by scheduling a Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge.
