What is the difference between a will and a living will?

A will and a living will are both documents that can be used to ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. However, there are key differences between the two that must be kept in mind when creating your estate plan in California. A will is a document used to outline your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets after you have passed away. It includes the appointment of an executor that will carry out your wishes and distribute your property as you have requested. California law requires that a will be witnessed and notarized to be valid. A living will, on the other hand, is a document used to outline your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event of a terminal illness or end of life care. This document will include instructions for the doctor that outlines what kind of treatments you would like to receive, or decline, if you are unable to make your own decisions. California law does not require a living will to be witnessed or notarized, but it does must meet certain criteria for it to be valid. Both a will and a living will are important documents to have in mind when creating an estate plan in California. With a living will, you can ensure your wishes are carried out in the event of a medical emergency, and with a will, you can make sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death.

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What is the difference between a will and a living will?

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