Free Living Will

If you are looking for a free living will form, there are a number of websites that offer forms to the public. These forms are not designed to take the place of advice from a qualified attorney. If you have any questions about the provisions in a free living will, do make an appointment and get the appropriate legal advice.

A directive to physicians is another name for a living will.

What is a Living Will

A living will, also known as an advance directive, is a legal document. It provides instructions to an individual's physician treatment requests in the event the person cannot communicate his or her wishes. The provisions contained in an advance directive will be put into effect if a person is in a coma, for example.

Who Should Have an Advance Directive?

There are advantages to signing an advance directive. If the document is prepared in advance, then one's family is not put in the position of making decisions about treatment at a very difficult time. The patient knows that his or her instructions will be followed.

People who have been diagnosed with a serious illness often have a living will drawn up. This type of document can be prepared when one is in good health, as well. In the event of an accident or a sudden illness, the medical personnel have instructions whether the person wants extraordinary measures taken to preserve his or her life.

Provisions in a Free Living Will

A free living will can include provisions stating the types of treatment you do not want to receive if you are terminally ill. Alternatively, a living will can include directives about certain treatments you want to receive, not matter what your medical condition or the prognosis for recovery.

You can get a form for a living will from:

• Your lawyer
• Your doctor
• Specialized legal software, such as will kits
• A number of online resources

Another option for preparing a free living will is to write the document yourself. If you choose to write your own directive, take it to a lawyer to make sure that your instructions are clear. The document needs to be notarized as well. After the document is signed, give a copy of it to your doctor, your estate executor, your lawyer, or someone else authorized to act on your behalf.

It is a good idea to discuss the contents of your living will with your family. Share your thoughts about the types of treatments you do or do not want. The discussion may be uncomfortable, but your family needs to know this information.

Making Changes

A living will can be changed after it has been signed. The person simply has a new document prepared. Provide those authorized to act on your behalf with the new version and ask them to destroy the previous version.

A person who has signed an advance directive can also indicate that they have changed their wishes verbally. If the person has been admitted to hospital, he or she can tell the doctor and family members what treatments or measures to preserve life he or she wants to consent to. Make sure you are clear in your communication so your wishes are properly understood.

As people get older, end-of-life issues become more important. Take the time to plan for future events and put your wishes in writing by making a free living will. By taking this step, your family will not be put in the position of having to make difficult decisions at a very stressful time.

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