A living will isn’t something most people end up thinking about day to day, but it can actually end up becoming one of the most important documents you will ever create. It speaks for you even when you can’t speak for yourself.
Planning for medical decisions isn’t always easy. However, it can bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Taking the time to understand what a living will does is a thoughtful and powerful step.
An introduction
Despite the name, a living will isn’t a traditional will at all. Rather, it’s a legal document designed to outline your wishes for medical treatment if you are ever unable to communicate those decisions yourself. Whether you become incapacitated due to a terminal illness, accident or state of unconsciousness. By creating a living will, you can help to remove uncertainty for your loved ones during what can be an emotional and difficult time. It provides clear guidance so your family doesn’t have to guess what you would have wanted — or face disputes about your care.
While all states allow living wills, each state has specific state laws that govern how these documents must be executed to be legally valid. Under Virginia’s living will laws, a living will, must be created by a competent adult, meaning someone who is of legal age and mentally capable of understanding the decisions they are making. Additionally, it must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. When properly executed, a living will obligates healthcare providers to follow its directives.
Preparing a living will can be a meaningful step towards protecting your wishes and easing the burden on your loved ones. If you’re thinking about putting plans in place, it can be extremely helpful to seek trusted legal guidance to ensure everything is handled with care and clarity, providing peace of mind for both you and your family for years to come.