Chesapeake Health Care Directive Lawyer
A health care directive, often referred to as an advanced medical directive or a living will, allows you to make your wishes known regarding any medical care you do or do not want to receive. When creating a health care directive, you also appoint an agent, another person, to carry out your wishes in the event that you cannot do so on your own. Our Chesapeake health care directive lawyer has years of experience drafting comprehensive health care directives so your wishes are honored.
What is a Health Care Directive?
Health care directives are increasing in popularity and more people are starting to include them in their estate plans. However, while a health care directive can be drafted as part of an estate plan, these documents can also be drafted on their own. Due to the fact that many people refer to these documents as ‘living wills,’ they are often confused for wills or living trusts. Health care directives are much different, though.
While a will and trust can name a guardian for your children and determine how your property is distributed after you pass away, a health care directive outlines your wishes in the event that you cannot make decisions about your own health care. Health care directives are most practical in situations where the chance of survival is slim. With a health care directive you can outline your preferences for the following:
- Resuscitation
- Life support
- Feeding
- Analgesia
- Antibiotics
Benefits of a Health Care Directive
There are many benefits that come with drafting a health care directive. First and foremost, you can ensure that your wishes are upheld in the event that you cannot make decisions for yourself. This is one reason health care directives are becoming more popular today. Over recent years, there have been tremendous advancements in science and the medical field. Today, doctors and healthcare professionals have more options than ever before when trying to treat a person or save their life. While someone may want medical staff to take any and all measures to save them, others may not. A health care directive can make sure your wishes are known.
Additionally, a health care directive can also help your family if you are ever unable to make decisions for yourself. Without this legal document, your family members may have to make very difficult decisions on your behalf. A health care directive can outline your wishes and decisions so your loved ones do not have to have the final say.
Our Health Care Directive Lawyer in Chesapeake Can Help
If you are planning your estate, or for your future, a health care directive can be of great help. At The Law Office of Angela N. Manz, our Chesapeake health care directive lawyer can draft your document and ensure it clearly expresses your wishes and that it is executed properly so it is enforceable. Call us now at 757-271-6275 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help.
