Living Wills: An Insider's Guide To Informed Adulting In America

ACROSS AMERICA — Everyone should have a living will. Here’s something about that you may not know: You don’t have to pay a lawyer to draw it up.

Living wills — documents also called “advanced directives” that ensure your health care wishes are honored in the event of an unexpected illness or injury — are legally binding as long as they’re signed before and witnessed by a notary public.

What is a notary public? It's a person of integrity certified by a state government agency to witness signatures on official documents and certify they are authentic. The UPS Store offers notary services; or, just do an online search for notary public services near where you live or work

Here are five steps to get them done:

1. Check your state’s laws on living wills, and get the form specific to your state. You should create a living will based on the laws in your state of residence. Most states accept living wills from other states as long as they are properly recorded, but it’s a good idea to check if you spend a lot of time in another state.

2. Most states offer a blank living will template at no charge — but be warned, it may not be easy to tailor it to your needs. Ubiquitous software companies offer free living will templates; with others, you may be asked to pay a fee to download your documents.

3. Decide your preferred treatment options. If you’re terminally ill or catastrophically injured, do you want your medical team to use all treatments at its disposal to prolong your life? Some specific terms to be familiar with:

• Life-sustaining treatments, including chemotherapy, medication or surgery.
• Life support, including feeding tubes, artificial respiration and kidney dialysis.
• End-of-life wishes, including organ donation or religious rituals.

You should always discuss your wishes with loved ones.

4. Consider giving someone close to you medical power of attorney. This person can make sure the terms of your living will are met if you’re incapacitated.

5. Store your living will in a secure place, such as a home safe. If you change your mind about any of the provisions, especially as you age or your health changes, make sure you’re updating your living will. It’s also a good idea to give a copy to your health insurance provider, your doctor and your local hospital.

» More on this from LegalNature.com

(Editor’s note: “An Insider's Guide To Informed Adulting In America” is a weekly feature on Across America Patch to help people navigate life’s tricky situations and get their ducks in a row.)