A living will in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, occasionally referred to as a "healthcare directive" is a legal document instructing those concerned (family, doctors, etc.) on how you want to be viewed if you become unable to make your wishes known due to physical or mental incapacity.

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

For instance, some people wish to be taken off of life support if they are in a permanent vegetative state, and their doctors believe that they have little to no chance of a meaningful recovery. Nonetheless, if this wish is not expressed in advance, it may be impossible to implement in the unfortunate event that it becomes relevant.

Additionally, if family members have different opinions of what the patient would want, this can give rise to infighting. Disagreements on such a painful subject can tear families apart. If the patient's wishes are made clear in advance, such arguments and disagreements are far less likely.

How to Create A Living Will in Rehoboth, Massachusetts

Before initiating the process, you should make your wishes extremely clear to your family. If your family is cognizant of your wishes well in advance, it will probably be much easier for them to accept the provisions in your living will, even if they don't agree with them.

You then need to actually draft your living will. This can be made much easier if you have an accomplished Rehoboth, Massachusetts attorney who practices health law or wills and trusts help you. Even though a simple living will is not terribly difficult, having professional assistance is always advisable.

Living wills generally have to follow the same formalities as regular wills (the ones that distribute a person's property after their death).

While these protocols vary by state, there are a few elements that are quite typical. For example, in most states, wills have to be witnessed and signed by at least 2 people who have no direct share in it. It's also essential to avoid any disputes or confusion as to whether or not a particular document was intended to be a will. A clear statement to that effect should be the first paragraph in any type of will.

Do I Need A Rehoboth, Massachusetts Living Will Attorney?

While it's not strictly obligated, it can be very helpful to have the counsel of an accomplished Rehoboth, Massachusetts attorney. A seasoned lawyer will help you navigate the local laws on this subject, making it much easier for your wishes to be implemented.