A living will is an official document that dictates how your estate and financial affairs are handled. However, unlike a regular will, it doesn’t involve your property and assets going to beneficiaries after your death. Instead, a living will outline how you want your affairs handled if you become ill or incapacitated and cannot take care of them yourself. It also states how you wish to receive medical care if you cannot express your own decisions.
If you live in LA County and have wondered whether a living will is a good option for you, it’s important to know how it works.
How a Living Will Works
A living will directs the means by how a person is treated medically in the event that they become critically ill and cannot verbally express those wishes. For example, some people may decide they want a “DNR” or “do not resuscitate” directive included in their living will, which means CPR would not be used depending on the circumstances.
A living will can only be valid if it meets the state requirements with witnesses being present and being officially notarized. The document can also be revoked if the person wants that. A living will can take effect either as soon as it is signed or when the individual becomes ill or incapacitated and can no longer express their wishes on medical treatment.
Power of Attorney
A document that is often included with living wills is a durable power of attorney (DPOA) for the individual’s healthcare. This determines what the person wishes to be done for their end-of-life treatment. A designated person, known as the agent or healthcare proxy, is named. This is the individual the person chooses to ensure their wishes are carried out.
If you live in Los Angeles and are interested in creating a living will, contact Fridley Law Firm to talk to LA County estate planning lawyers. You can discuss your wishes with experienced LA County estate planning lawyers by immediately contacting Fridley Law Firm.