What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that allows you to state your end-of-life wishes while you are still alive. It typically outlines what kind of medical care you would want to receive if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. In Virginia, a living will is known as an advance directive. This document can contain specific instructions regarding medical care and treatments, including the use of life-sustaining measures such as artificial nutrition and hydration. Additionally, the living will can authorize someone to make decisions on behalf of the individual in the event that they become incapacitated. A living will can be part of a larger estate plan. While estate plans can be tailored to individual needs, they typically contain an inventory of assets and liabilities and provide a mechanism for transferring property after an individual passes away. Estate plans can also include advance directives such as powers of attorney and living wills. These documents are important and can be helpful in ensuring that the wishes of the estate owner are met and respected. It is important to remember that a living will is a very personal and sensitive document that requires careful consideration by the individual. In Virginia, a living will must be signed by two witnesses or a notary public and must be available to medical personnel in order to be valid.

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