Those who do not have any dependents and have not accumulated significant assets may not feel the need to create a last will and testament. In such a scenario, an estate lawyer would still recommend drafting a living will, though. While a last will dictates how any assets will be distributed upon death, a living will is a legal document that discusses the extent of medical care you wish to receive should you ever become incapacitated.

Local Estate Lawyer Shares 3 Reasons to Prepare a Living Will

1. Reduce the Burden on Your Loved Ones

Even those closest to you may have no idea what kind of medical care you would want following a catastrophic accident. This can put a considerable amount of pressure on loved ones, and if they disagree, it can even result in disagreements that eventually tear the family apart. By stating your wishes in unambiguous terms ahead of time, no one will have to bear the burden of determining what you might want. 

2. Have Peace of Mind

People often have strong feelings about life support. Regardless if you are staunchly for or against certain treatments, creating a living will provides peace of mind. The only way to ensure any health care wishes are respected is by including them in a legally binding document.

3. Eliminate Excessive Medical Bills

Keeping someone on life support indefinitely is incredibly expensive. Even those who want doctors to do everything possible to save them can prevent their loved ones from accumulating an insurmountable amount of medical debt by stipulating at what point treatment should stop.   

If you want to prepare a comprehensive living will, turn to an estate lawyer at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott PC in Middletown, NY. For more than a century, residents of Hudson Valley have relied on this firm’s legal prowess to resolve many complicated disputes. Whether you need a criminal law attorney or a divorce lawyer, their team will help you navigate the proceedings while protecting your best interests every step of the way. To learn more about their estate planning services, visit their website. To schedule a free consultation with an estate lawyer, call (845) 343-3000.