End-of-Life Planning with Confidence: Key Decisions You May Need to Make and What You May Want to Consider

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Blog Estate Planning

September 2024

If you are searching the internet for “Living Will Lawyer,” you’re likely seeking legal guidance on end-of-life planning. However, you may also want to better understand the need and benefits of Wills and estate planning. You might be concerned about a chronic health issue and want assurance that your medical preferences are known in case you become incapacitated. Or perhaps you simply want to start preparing your wishes well ahead of time.

Whatever your motivation, planning for end-of-life decisions is crucial so that your wishes are honored.

One key aspect of this planning is creating important documents that guide your healthcare and estate decisions. In this post, we discuss estate planning documents to consider.

Why end-of-life planning matters

End-of-life planning is not merely about drafting legal documents; it’s a fundamental step in ensuring that your personal values and wishes are honored when you are no longer able to communicate them yourself. The process involves careful consideration of your healthcare preferences, financial arrangements, and the management of your estate.

Basic estate planning documents to consider for end-of-life planning

1. Physician’s Directive (Living Will)

What they are: These documents address life sustaining treatment decisions and include other provisions.

Why they’re beneficial: They ensure that your healthcare providers and loved ones know your wishes; this helps reduce stress and confusion during difficult times. For example, if you want to refuse certain life-sustaining treatments, a physician’s directive (living will) allows you to specify this in advance.

2. Durable Power of Attorney

What it is: A legal document that grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf. It can include authority to manage your assets and make financial and health care decisions on your behalf while you are living. You can direct that the person can act on your behalf immediately or only if you are no longer able to make decisions.

Why it’s beneficial: This stipulates that your financial and legal affairs are managed according to your wishes, even if you’re unable to handle them yourself. For example, if you’re unable to manage your finances due to a medical condition, this document ensures someone you trust can handle your affairs.

3. Last Will and Testament

What it is: A document that specifies how your estate should be distributed after your death. Designates your personal representative (executor or executrix). You can also designate the guardian for your minor children. Keep in mind a last will and testament does not avoid probate. Speak with a lawyer to discuss other estate planning options.

Why it’s beneficial: It helps to avoid disputes among family members and ensures that your estate is distributed according to your preferences. For example, if you have specific wishes for distributing heirlooms or estate assets, a Will helps make those wishes clear and legally binding.

Why choose LegalShield estate planning services

Our provider law firms offer an integrated suite of services that covers all facets of estate planning. Experienced and knowledgeable in end-of-life planning, they approach the process with compassion and understanding.

You can contact your LegalShield provider law firm for answers to unlimited personal legal questions; have your lawyer review contracts and legal documents; receive assistance with letters and phone calls; and access other essential legal services.

We even provide a simple Will Questionnaire for you to fill out as you begin your Will preparation process. We want you to know that we’re here to support you in making well-informed decisions for the future.

Take the next step:

Contact your independent associate and become a LegalShield Member today.

Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. (“PPLSI”) provides access to legal services offered by a network of provider law firms to PPLSI members through membership-based participation. Neither PPLSI nor its officers, employees or sales associates directly or indirectly provide legal services, representation, or advice. The information made available in this blog is meant to provide general information and is not intended to provide legal advice, render an opinion, or provide a recommendation as to a specific matter. The blog post is not a substitute for competent legal counsel from a licensed professional lawyer in the state or province where your legal issues exist, and you should seek legal counsel for your specific legal matter.