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Living Will (Advance Healthcare Directive)
Prepare a legally valid Living Will to outline your healthcare wishes and designate decision-makers for medical situations.
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LIVING WILL (ADVANCE HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVE) TEMPLATE
This Living Will (“Directive”) is made on [Date], by:
Declarant: [Full Legal Name], residing at [Address]
1. Purpose
This Directive sets forth my instructions regarding medical treatment if I am unable to make decisions due to incapacity. It reflects my personal wishes and values concerning healthcare.
2. Healthcare Decisions
If I am in a terminal condition, permanent unconsciousness, or other state of incapacity, I direct that the following treatments be:
Life-sustaining treatment: [Accept/Refuse]
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): [Accept/Refuse]
Artificial nutrition and hydration: [Accept/Refuse]
Pain management: [Describe preferences]
3. Appointment of Healthcare Proxy
I appoint [Full Name], residing at [Address], as my healthcare agent to make medical decisions on my behalf if I cannot do so. If this person is unable or unwilling to serve, I appoint [Alternate Full Name] as the alternate agent.
4. Organ Donation
Upon my death, I wish to: [Donate all organs/Donate specific organs/Not donate].
5. Revocation
I may revoke this Directive at any time in writing or orally, in accordance with applicable law.
6. Governing Law
This Directive shall be governed by the laws of the State of [State].
Signature of Declarant: ________________________ Date: ___________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Witness 1 Signature: __________________________ Date: ___________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Witness 2 Signature: __________________________ Date: ___________
Printed Name: _________________________________
Details
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Living Will (Advance Healthcare Directive)
LIVING WILL (ADVANCE HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVE) – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Living Will, and what purpose does it serve?
A Living Will, also known as an Advance Healthcare Directive, is a legal document that specifies your preferences for medical care if you are unable to communicate due to illness or incapacity. It may include instructions on life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, pain management, and organ donation.
Does a Living Will carry legal force?
Yes. A Living Will has legal force when executed according to state law, typically requiring the declarant’s signature, witness signatures, and sometimes notarization.
Assessment: Correct – proper execution ensures enforceability and adherence to your healthcare wishes.
Can a Living Will be used in any state?
Generally, yes. Nolo principles indicate that as long as essential elements are included—clear healthcare instructions, identification of the declarant, and proper execution—it is valid. Some states may require specific statutory forms or additional provisions.
Assessment: Correct – compliance with local requirements is essential.
What if I need a more flexible version of this document?
You can use our AI Lawyer product to create a customized Living Will that addresses specific medical scenarios, aligns with your personal values, and meets your state’s legal requirements.
How can I use this template?
You can:
Download and fill it out with your treatment preferences.
Or, upload it into AI Lawyer for guided customization and additional clauses.
What are common mistakes to avoid when drafting a Living Will?
Failing to appoint a healthcare proxy, using vague medical instructions, or neglecting to review and update the document after major health or life changes.
Can this template be adapted for international use?
Yes, but it must be adjusted to align with the healthcare laws and patient rights of the specific country.
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