A Living Will Declaration

Today’s improved medical technology and procedures enable a terminal patient’s life to be prolonged almost indefinitely. This medical progress has raised the question of an individual’s “right to die” or desire to “die with dignity.” This situation has also led to the creation of advance directive documents that permit you to give directions regarding your future medical care in the event that you are unable to do so. These documents fall into two general categories: a Living Will Declaration and a Durable Power of Attorney.

This section contains general information pertaining to these advance medical directives. Because laws and regulations vary from state to state and are subject to change, the information contained in this section cannot take the place of legal counsel.

How to Begin
When considering whether or not you wish to prepare such a directive, you should first contact your attorney. You may also want to discuss this matter with your doctor, family members, or a close friend. An additional source for information regarding this subject is your state’s Attorney General’s office.

Steps to Follow:

• First, consult with your attorney.
• Check the laws in your state regarding Living Will Declarations and Durable Powers of Attorney.
• Put your wishes in writing and be as specific as possible.
• Sign and date your directive(s) and have it (them) witnessed and notarized, if necessary in your state.
• Keep a card in your wallet stating that you have an advance medical directive(s) and where to find it (them).
• Give a copy of your directive(s) to your attorney, your physician, your proxy (in the case of Durable Power of Attorney) and a person who is likely to be notified in an emergency.
• Keep a copy of your directive(s) in a secure place, not a bank vault.
• Review your advance directive(s) regularly and share it (them) with a family member or close friend.