What is a living will?  Learn facts and get answers about living wills in California.  A  Health Care Power of Attorney is also known as a Living Will.   This is to appoint someone to make trusted decisions in an event you are unable to do so.  This is a very important document since it gives the power  to direct the physicians to perform or withhold treatment. It is usually a spouse or a trusted relative or friend who knows what your wishes are regarding medical treatment. 

A LIVING WILL IS a fairly simple document which can have a profound affect on how you are treated when you are unable to communicate during a terminal illness.  Simply, it directs the doctors and family not to prolong life when death is imminent and to let a person  die gracefully and naturally.

WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT A LIVING WILL?

Not too long ago there wasn't any reason to have one.  However, today's medicine and new technology can keep a body living for years after there is any chance of person recovering or even regaining consciousness. Also, some terminal illnesses are so painful that death is often welcomed by the ill party and the family who watches their loved one suffer. A final factor is that the expense of having someone kept artificially alive can wipe out an entire life-time of savings for the family.

Disclaimer - Be sure to read the disclaimer for this website. This website is for informational purposes only. NO legal advice shall be construed by reading the information provided here or in the informational booklets/pamphlets. Buying any informational booklet does NOT create any attorney/client relationship. After a retainer agreement has been signed by the perspective client and attorney, then representation commences. This web site is to help you understand living wills and power of attorneys.