In Florida, a Living Will is an important legal document that ensures your healthcare wishes are honored if you become incapacitated and are unable to make medical decisions. In this blog article, we will discuss the Florida laws that are designed to allow individuals to maintain control over their medical treatment even when they can’t communicate their preferences.
What is Living Will?
A Living Will is a legal document that sets forth an individual’s preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their choices. It serves as a guide for medical professionals and family members to ensure that the person’s wishes are respected, particularly when it comes to end-of-life decisions and the use of life-sustaining treatments.
Why is a Living Will important in Florida?
A Living Will can help alleviate the burden on your loved ones during medically challenging times. A Living Will can provide clarity and peace of mind to your family and medical professionals by expressly stating your preferences regarding life prolonging procedures, artificial hydration, mechanical ventilation, and resuscitation. In the absence of a Living Will, these decisions might fall on your family members, potentially leading to disagreements and stress during an already emotional time.
How to Create a Living Will?
1. It is imperative to follow the legal requirements to create a Living Will in Florida. Under Florida law, a Living Will must be in writing and signed by you in the presence of two witnesses. These witnesses must also sign the document, acknowledging your signature.
2. Your Living Will should articulate your preferences regarding medical treatments. You can specify whether you want life-prolonging procedures, artificial nutrition, hydration, and other forms of medical intervention.
3. After drafting your Living Will, you should ensure that it’s easily accessible to your healthcare providers and family members. You might even consider giving a copy to your doctor and local hospital so they can keep your Living Will in their files.
A Living Will is an important document to be included in your estate planning documents. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact Jason Siegel, Esq. with The Siegel Law Firm, PA.