In New Milford, Connecticut a living will, also identified as a "healthcare directive" is a document which lays out instructions for your family and your doctor concerning healthcare matters should you become so ill that you are unable to make or express such decisions.

This can be very advantageous in avoiding disputes between family members who otherwise might not know what your wishes on this subject are.

For instance, many people would never want to be kept alive by artificial means if they are in a vegetative state with no chance of recovery. Some, on the other hand, might want to be kept alive indefinitely, because of the slight chance of a miraculous recovery. Obviously, this is a personal decision, and one choice is not "better" than the other. However, there is no middle ground between the two. You probably want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that, if such a matter comes up, your wishes (whatever they are) will be honored.

This can lead to fighting between loved ones, some of whom might want to keep the patient on life support, while others believe that he or she would not want to be kept alive in such a state. If the patient's wishes had been made clear beforehand in a legally-binding document, such infighting could be avoided.

How to Create A Living Will in New Milford, Connecticut

Before you begin, you should make it quite clear to your family members what your wishes on this subject are. If it ever becomes necessary to implement a living will, the process will likely be simpler if your family already knows what to expect.

You should then actually draft the will. To be sure that it is valid, you should have the help of a New Milford, Connecticut attorney who specializes in wills.

Usually, living wills need to follow the same formalities as testamentary wills (wills that dictate how one's property is to be distributed after death).

These formalities vary from state to state, but wills typically have to be witnessed and signed by at least two people who do not have a direct interest in the matter. Additionally, they should contain a clear statement indicating that the document is, in fact, a living will.

Do I Need A New Milford, Connecticut Living Will Attorney?

While it's not strictly required, it can be very helpful to have the counsel of an efficient New Milford, Connecticut attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer will help you navigate the local laws on this subject, making it much easier for your wishes to be implemented.