Planning for the future involves more than just financial decisions—it also includes preparing for unexpected medical situations. A living will is a key part of an estate plan that ensures your medical preferences are known and respected if you are unable to speak for yourself.
If guidance is needed on creating a living will or an estate plan, contact Ford & Friedman through our online contact form or call (702) 904-9898 to discuss your options.
What Is a Living Will?
A living will, sometimes called an advance directive, is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical care if you become incapacitated. It allows you to communicate instructions about life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and organ donation.
Unlike a last will or testament, a living will does not distribute assets or appoint guardians; instead, it focuses solely on healthcare decisions. Including a living will in your estate plan ensures your wishes are clear to both family members and medical professionals.
Why Include a Living Will in Your Estate Plan
Incorporating a living will into an estate plan offers several important benefits. A living will can:
- Reduce stress for loved ones who might otherwise make difficult healthcare decisions on your behalf.
- Clarify your preferences for treatments like ventilation, feeding tubes, or resuscitation.
- Complement a healthcare power of attorney by providing explicit instructions for situations where the agent cannot make a decision.
Including these documents together creates a comprehensive plan that protects both your health and your family’s peace of mind.
Key Components of a Living Will
A living will should be clear, concise, and specific. Common elements include:
- Instructions on life-sustaining treatments you wish to accept or decline.
- Directions regarding resuscitation or mechanical ventilation.
- Preferences for pain management and comfort care.
- Guidance on organ and tissue donation.
By addressing these details in advance, a living will minimizes confusion and helps healthcare providers respect your decisions even when you cannot communicate.
How a Living Will Works With Your Estate Plan
A living will is just one part of a broader estate plan. Other elements may include:
- A last will and testament for distributing assets.
- A healthcare power of attorney to designate a trusted individual to make medical decisions.
- Trusts, insurance policies, and other financial planning tools.
Together, these documents ensure that both your financial and medical wishes are documented and legally recognized.
Steps to Create a Living Will
Creating a living will involves several practical steps:
- Consider your values and medical preferences.
- Discuss options with family members and your healthcare provider.
- Draft a clear document that specifies your instructions.
- Sign the document according to Nevada legal requirements, often with witnesses or notarization.
- Share copies with your healthcare agent, family, and medical providers.
Following these steps ensures your living will is enforceable and can guide healthcare decisions when you are unable to do so yourself.
When to Review or Update Your Living Will
Life changes may necessitate updates to your living will. Consider reviewing it after:
- A major health event or diagnosis.
- Marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
- Moving to a new state or significant changes in Nevada healthcare laws.
Regular reviews help ensure your living will remains accurate and aligned with your current wishes and circumstances.
Creating a Living Will and Estate Plan With Ford & Friedman in Henderson
A living will is a critical part of any comprehensive estate plan. At Ford & Friedman, a Henderson estate planning attorney can guide you through the process, clarify your options, and help ensure your wishes are documented accurately. Contact Ford & Friedman through our online contact form or call (702) 904-9898 for assistance in creating a living will and full estate plan.