What Are the Steps to Create a Living Will in Pennsylvania?
A living will is a crucial legal document that outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event you are unable to communicate those wishes yourself. In Pennsylvania, creating a living will involves several essential steps. While you can create a living will on your own, consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney can ensure that your document is legally sound and accurately reflects your desires.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s Living Will Laws
Before diving into the steps to take to create a living will in Pennsylvania, it's essential to understand the state’s specific requirements regarding these documents. Laws regarding living wills in Pennsylvania include the following requirements:
- Must be signed and dated by the individual creating it.
- Requires two witnesses who are at least 18 years old and not related to you, entitled to any part of your estate, or financially responsible for your healthcare.
- Does not require notarization.
Steps to Create a Living Will in Pennsylvania
By understanding the steps involved in creating a living will in Pennsylvania, you can take proactive control of your healthcare future. Here are a few steps you can take to create a living will in Pennsylvania:
- Consider Your Wishes: Reflect on your values and beliefs about life-sustaining treatment. What kind of medical care do you want or not want to receive in a terminal or irreversible condition?
- Choose Your Language: Clearly express your desires in writing. Use specific terms and avoid vague language. You can use a pre-printed form or draft your own document.
- Designate a Surrogate Decision-Maker: Consider naming a healthcare surrogate or power of attorney for healthcare to make decisions on your behalf if you cannot.
- Obtain Witnesses: Find two qualified individuals to witness your signing of the living will. They must be present when you sign the document.
- Safeguard Your Living Will: Make copies of your living will and provide them to your healthcare providers, family members, and your attorney. Keep the original in a safe, accessible location.
Additional Considerations
- Review and Update: Life circumstances change, and it's essential to review and update your living will regularly to ensure it accurately reflects your current wishes.
- Consult an Attorney: While not required, consulting with an estate planning attorney can help you create a comprehensive living will that complies with Pennsylvania law and protects your best interests.
Creating a living will is a proactive step in ensuring your healthcare wishes are respected. By understanding the process and seeking legal guidance, you can empower yourself and your loved ones during a challenging time.
Need Help Creating a Living Will in Pennsylvania? Contact Our Experienced Estate Planning Attorneys Today.
Creating a living will is a vital step in ensuring your healthcare wishes are respected. While this blog post provides an overview of the process, it's best to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to create a legally sound and comprehensive document. Our estate planning lawyers at Scaringi Law can help you navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania law, address potential challenges, and ensure your living will aligns with your specific healthcare goals.
Contact our office online or call us at (717) 775-7195 today to schedule a confidential consultation.