Helping You Prepare For The Unexpected With A Health Care Directive

While contemplating the possibility of physical or mental incapacitation is unpleasant, it is essential to prepare for any eventuality. If you cannot make medical decisions for yourself, will your loved ones know your wishes?

Establishing a health care directive while you are of sound body and mind ensures that your medical wishes are documented and carried out. The estate planning team of Vanessa Carpenter Lourie, P.C., can help you draft a thorough health care directive as a part of your comprehensive estate plan.

Outlining Your Instructions In A Living Will

A health care directive, also known as a living will, is an estate planning document that allows you to outline specific instructions for your care and treatment in the event you can no longer make those decisions for yourself. It can outline your wishes regarding pain relief, invasive treatment and end of life care. Once created, a health care directive is a binding legal document that medical providers must follow.

Establishing A Health Care Power Of Attorney

You cannot anticipate every possible medical condition or future care need. However, you can designate a health care power of attorney to make key decisions on your behalf. The named agent should be someone you trust and who will make decisions in line with your medical wishes. Before you name an agent, speak with the individual to verify that they are willing to take on this responsibility and fully understand your wishes.

Let Our Attorney Help You Plan For An Uncertain Future

Estate planning laws can vary between states. From our office in Georgetown, we help residents in Maryland and Washington, D.C., draft advance directives that comply with state-specific laws.

Discuss your health care needs with an experienced lawyer during an initial consultation at our office. To schedule yours, contact Vanessa Carpenter Lourie, P.C. via email or call 202-342-8000.