Most people hope they will never be in a situation where they cannot speak for themselves. However, medical emergencies and serious health conditions can happen unexpectedly, and they often bring difficult decisions about life-sustaining treatment.
Living Wills in Coral Gables are legal documents that allow you to communicate your medical care preferences in advance. While you may not want to think about the possibility of a permanent unconscious state, terminal condition, or other end-of-life scenario, creating a Living Will is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your loved ones, and yourself. A knowledgeable Wills attorney could help you draft one as part of a broader estate plan, ensuring your medical choices are clearly documented and legally sound.
A Living Will focuses solely on your future medical care, including life-prolonging treatments such as artificial respiration and tube feeding. It allows you to outline which procedures you would prefer if, in the future, you are no longer able to make decisions on your own.
Florida law allows individuals to make these choices in advance and ensures that healthcare providers follow them. Without a clear directive, family members may be left guessing or arguing about what you would have wanted. A Living Will removes uncertainty and conflict, offers peace of mind, and reduces the burden on your loved ones during a deeply emotional time.
In Coral Gables and throughout the state, Living Wills are part of a group of documents often referred to as advance directives. These legal tools are especially important in a comprehensive estate plan because they focus on quality of life and personal dignity, not just what happens after you pass away.
A Living Will must meet specific legal requirements to be enforceable. You must sign it voluntarily in front of two independent witnesses, who are neither your healthcare provider nor someone who stands to benefit financially from your estate.
You should store it in a safe but accessible place, let someone you trust know where it is kept, and consider giving a copy to your healthcare provider. That way, if a medical emergency arises, the people involved in your care know your wishes and can act accordingly.
Advance directives are most effective when they reflect your priorities and align with your other estate planning documents, including your trust-based plan or power of attorney. At Veliz & Associates, P.A., we could help you draft a Living Will that is not only legally valid but also unambiguous and tailored to your values.
It is never too early to make known your future medical care preferences. Living Wills allow people in Coral Gables to stay in control of their care, even if a medical condition leaves them unable to speak. Call an experienced estate planning lawyer to discuss whether a Living Will should be part of your planning process. Putting your preferences in writing today can help your family tomorrow, and ensure your voice is heard when it matters most.
We evaluate your case and determine how we might be able to help.
We will meet with you to discuss your next options and lay out a plan.
Our team guides you throughout the process so you feel confident about your choices.
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