What is a living will?

A living will is an important document in estate planning and trusts and estates law in Washington. It is a document that allows you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment should you become incapacitated in the future. It allows you to set out the type of medical treatments you will and will not accept, and helps ensure that those wishes are respected even if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Living wills in Washington are often part of an overall estate planning package that includes other documents such as a power of attorney and a health care directive. A power of attorney allows you to designate someone else to make decisions on your behalf if you are not able to do so. A health care directive is a document that allows you to specify your wishes regarding medical treatment in greater detail. Living wills are important because they help provide a way for your family and doctors to ensure that you receive the treatment you would want if you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself. Your wishes will be respected even if you are unable to communicate them. It is important that you discuss your wishes with your family and your doctor and make sure that your wishes are reflected in the documents you sign.

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