Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys
A living will, like the name implies, is a document that instructs people how to handle your medical care when you are incapacitated or unable to decide for yourself. These documents are also referred to as advanced health care directives. Essentially, these forms instruct doctors and your medical proxy on how to proceed with life-saving measures. However, before you dive into creating a living will or discarding the idea, it is necessary to consider at least five things. The following is a brief overview. For more detailed information, contact one of the Illinois estate planning attorneys at Bott & Associates, Ltd.
1. Necessity
The key to determining whether a living will is needed or not is how you feel about certain situations. For example, how do you feel about being hooked up to machines, alive but not conscious? If you are indifferent, then maybe you don’t need one. However, if you feel strongly about it one way or the other, then a living will is a must.
2. Writing
Many people avoid writing a living will because they think it is a long, complicated process. However, these documents are usually forms with boxes to check and sign. Although, while there are downloadable forms available, it is better to see an estate planning lawyer in Schaumburg, IL from our firm because online forms can be outdated and if any errors or omissions are made, the will could later be deemed invalid.
3. Costs
Cost is another factor that may deter some people. While a living will, in combination with an estate plan can be costly, most Illinois estate planning attorneys will help you create a living will alone for a nominal feel.
4. Amending
Living will forms are often cut-and-dry, but you can make amendments to individual sections if you feel the need. However, if you want to supply more information in specific areas, it is best left to an attorney who has experience with these documents. While it might seem that you can just write in information, a living will is a legal document, and it must be completed in a certain way to be considered legally binding.
5. Storage
Lastly, if you choose to create a living will, then you must consider how and where the document will be stored. First, you should have more than one copy. Second, give a copy to your doctor, your lawyer, and your proxy. Finally, store the last copy someplace safe, and inform your family of where it is.
Call an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney for Help
While not everyone feels the need to have a living will, these documents are critical to receiving the medical care you desire when you are incapable of communicating your wishes. Don’t leave your medical decisions up for debate. Talk to one of the experienced Illinois estate planning attorneys from Bott & Associates, Ltd. and create your living will today.