A living will is a document that details a person’s medical treatment desires when they’re no longer able to consent. A meticulously-prepared living will can offer customized guidance and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. If you’ve been thinking about putting together this important document, an estate planning attorney is a valuable resource. To get started, here are several items to consider including in a living will.

What Belongs in a Living Will?

1. Power of Attorney

This critical document allows a person to designate another person or attorney to oversee your personal and financial matters if they aren’t able to do so. From paying bills to filing income tax returns, the scope of responsibilities is broad. The power of attorney is typically implemented if a person becomes mentally or physically incapacitated. Estate planning attorneys ensure that the document can be amended at any time by the person requesting it. 

2. Advance Directive

A will should also provide clear instructions on how a person wants medical decisions to be made. By including an advance directive, loved ones and physicians will follow exact instructions on matters such as organ donation and if resuscitation attempts should be made. The legal document can also name a proxy, which is a person who will make medical decisions for the will holder. 

3. Executor

After a person dies, they will need someone to administer the will. In many cases, an estate planning attorney is given this responsibility. Their role is to ensure the person’s last wishes are properly executed. This includes distributions of assets to beneficiaries and making sure debt and taxes are paid to the appropriate creditors. Depending on the person’s wishes, an executor’s responsibilities can include several legal and financial matters.

For more than 25 years, Greene Law, PC in Hartford County, CT, has helped individuals and families with customized legal matters. The team of estate planning attorneys specializes in professional guidance tailored to fit the different needs of their clients. To learn more about drafting a living will, call (860) 676-1336 to schedule a complimentary consultation. Visit their website for extensive information on the law firm’s full suite of services, including filing for bankruptcy and divorce matters.