A Living Will, also known as a Medical Advance Directive, is a legal document that expresses your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event that you are unable to make decisions for yourself. It allows you to outline your preferences for life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial ventilation, feeding tubes, and resuscitation.
Please click here to find out more about our Wills and Lasting Power of Attorney Services.
Free Initial Telephone Discussion
For a free initial discussion on how we can help you deal with the legal implications of creating a lasting power of attorney, get in touch with us today. We are also experienced in dealing with all aspects of Wills and Probate and we will review your situation and discuss the options open to you in a clear and approachable manner. Early expert legal assistance can help ensure you avoid the stress of dealing with these issues on your own. Simply call us on 0345 901 0445 or click here to make a free enquiry and a member of the team will get back to you.
The Importance of a Living Will
A Living Will can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones by ensuring that your wishes regarding medical treatment are respected, even if you are unable to communicate them. It can also help to avoid difficult and stressful decisions for your family at a time when they may be emotionally overwhelmed.
Key Elements of a Living Will
A Living Will typically includes the following elements:
- Your Name and Date of Birth: This information helps to identify the document and ensure that it is applicable to you.
- Statement of Intent: This section clearly states that you want your wishes regarding medical treatment to be followed.
- Specific Instructions: You can outline your preferences for various medical treatments, such as artificial ventilation, feeding tubes, and resuscitation.
- Appointment of a Proxy: You may want to appoint a person (your proxy) to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
- Date and Signature: The Living Will must be signed and dated by you.
Creating a Living Will
You can create a Living Will by consulting with a solicitor or by using a pre-printed form. It is important to ensure that the document is legally valid and complies with the relevant laws in your jurisdiction.
Key Considerations When Creating a Living Will
- Think Carefully About Your Wishes: Consider your values, beliefs, and preferences when making decisions about medical treatment.
- Consult with Loved Ones: Discuss your wishes with your family and friends to ensure that they understand your intentions.
- Seek Professional Advice: A solicitor can help you to create a legally valid Living Will and ensure that it reflects your wishes.
- Review and Update Regularly: Your circumstances may change over time, so it is important to review and update your Living Will periodically.
The Role of a Proxy
If you appoint a proxy in your Living Will, they will have the authority to make decisions about your medical treatment on your behalf. Your proxy should be someone you trust and who understands your wishes.
The Importance of Registering Your Living Will
While it is not legally required to register your Living Will, it is recommended that you do so. This can help to ensure that your wishes are known to your healthcare providers and family members.
How we can help
We have a proven track-record of helping clients create a lasting power of attorney and living Wills. This also includes all the different types, even if you need more than one. We are a multidisciplinary firm and have all the expertise inhouse to satisfy the most exacting requirements of our clients. We will guide you through all the necessary legal due diligence in a comprehensive and timely manner. We firmly believe that with the right solicitors by your side, the entire process will seem more manageable and far less daunting.
How to Contact Our Wills and Probate Solicitors
It is important for you to be well informed about the issues and possible implications of creating a Lasting Power of Attorney and a living Will. However, expert legal support is crucial in terms of ensuring your wishes are met as you would want them to be.
To speak to our Wills and Probate solicitors today, simply call us on 0345 901 0445, or click here to make a free enquiry. We are well known across the country and can assist wherever you are based. We also have offices based in Cheshire and London.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice on any individual circumstances.
Comments are closed.
