When it comes to estate planning, there are a lot of different documents to consider. Everyone is different, so everyone’s estate plan will be different. For this reason, it is important to reach out to a skilled estate planning attorney who can make a personalized plan that meets your needs. Additionally, it helps to go into the process with an idea of what you are looking for. One document that many people choose to create is an advance healthcare directive. This is a document that will be used in the event that you become incapacitated or are no longer of sound mind to make decisions regarding your health. This document can help your family and doctors understand what you want and how to best execute your wishes. Read on to learn more about advance healthcare directives and how you can create one.
What is an Advance Healthcare Directive?
An advance healthcare directive allows you to make your end-of-life plans. This allows you to make decisions regarding your medical wishes. This is important for many reasons. For one, it gives you the power to make decisions about your health and treatments. Everyone has different views, opinions, and religious beliefs, and it is important that yours are followed when it comes to your healthcare. Additionally, because these difficult decisions have already been decided upon by you, it takes the pressure and stress off of your loved ones. In an advance healthcare directive, you can decide upon things like:
- Authorize loved ones to obtain medical records in emergency situations
- Indicate whether the document is effective immediately or upon a finding of incapacity
- Set the standard for determining your incapacity
- Communicate your wishes to receive or not receive life-saving care
- Ensure decisions are made in accordance with your beliefs, principles, or religious practices
- Any additional healthcare wishes or concerns
How Can I Make One?
If you are interested in creating an advance healthcare directive, you should contact an experienced estate planning attorney at your earliest convenience. It is never too soon to make an advance healthcare directive.
If you or a loved one is looking to begin the estate planning process, contact our firm today. We understand how stressful estate planning can be and we are here to walk you through the process and ensure that your needs are met. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Contact our Firm
The Lauterbach Law Firm is proud to serve clients throughout Rockland County who are faced with legal matters related to estate planning, real estate, foreclosure defense, landlord-tenant law, business law, and criminal defense. If you require the services of an experienced team of attorneys, contact The Lauterbach Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.
