A living will is a legal document covering your wishes in regards to life support. It notifies family members and doctors of your decisions if you not able to communicate. It is usually included in an estate plan but may also function as an independent document. This article includes information on living wills in MA.

What Living Wills Specify

Living wills allow you to list the types of treatments you wish to have or wish not to have should your condition become dire,… such as requiring extraordinary measures or suffering from a terminal illness. Specific requirements for living wills can differ by state, so it is important to use a local attorney. Your attorney may also inform you of different options.

When Living Wills Take Effect

Living wills apply only once you are incapacitated AND your ultimate recovery is hopeless. Normally, a doctor must verify that you are in such a condition. It does not apply to other less serious medical events such as heart attacks. For cases where the outlook is not severe but you are unable to express your wishes, you can have a health care proxy that allows a loved one to make decisions for you. These are two separate documents and are effective under separate scenarios. Together, they make up an advance health care directive.

Livings Wills for MA

Living wills guarantee that your preferences are observed. Situations may result from known conditions or a completely unpredictable circumstance. It can alleviate the burden on family members or prevent family members from fighting over what to do. It needs advance preparation and should be written when you are in the right state of mind. This was information on living wills in MA and is published as a reference only. Always consult with an attorney for additional information and advice.