Living Will

A living will allows you to set guidelines for the type of medical care you will receive at end-of-life and designate an individual who will uphold your wishes by acting on your behalf. Learn what a living will does and why you should always work with an estate planning attorney for living wills.  

Who Needs a Living Will in South Carolina? 

You may think that a living will is only for the elderly, but it can help people of all ages by making your wishes known. The reality is that accidents (and global pandemics) happen, and you could be left in a vegetative state at a young age. Expressing your desires regarding end-of-life care helps your loved ones, when they are in the position of making difficult decisions on your behalf. The living will only go into effect when you’re incapacitated.

How a Lexington Estate Planning Attorney Can Help with Living Wills.

Anyone over the age of 18 can draw up a living will and a health care power of attorney. These two documents are collectively referred to as advanced directives, but there are key differences to note. A living will designate only end-of-life decisions, for instance, decisions when you have a terminal condition or are comatose. The health care power of attorney covers all medical decisions, not just end-of-life. 

An estate planning attorney can help you determine which documents you need and discuss the implications of all decisions, so you can make your decisions with confidence. There are some important exceptions to know. Given the vital nature of these documents, it’s critical that you have an attorney guiding you through the process.

At Pozsik & Carpenter, we offer living wills and comprehensive estate planning in Lexington and Columbia, South Carolina. Call 803-764-1105 today to talk over our circumstances and learn how we can help you develop a living will.