Law Office of Macklin K Everly

Planning for the future is about more than just managing your assets; it’s about making sure that your healthcare wishes are known and respected if you become unable to communicate them. One of the most important documents in your estate plan is a living will. While many people are familiar with traditional wills, a living will serves a very different purpose and plays a crucial role in ensuring your medical preferences are honored.

A living will is a legally binding document that outlines your specific wishes regarding life-sustaining medical treatment in the event that you are terminally ill or permanently unconscious. It communicates your preferences to doctors, family members, and other caregivers when you are unable to do so. Let’s explore why a living will is an essential component of any comprehensive estate plan.

What is a Living Will?

A living will in Ohio allows you to express your preferences for medical treatment if you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself. Specifically, it addresses whether you wish to receive life-sustaining treatment, such as mechanical ventilation, feeding tubes, or resuscitation, if you are diagnosed with a terminal condition or are in a permanently unconscious state.

A living will is different from a healthcare power of attorney, which designates a person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. A living will directly states your wishes regarding end-of-life care, whereas a healthcare power of attorney allows someone else to make broader healthcare decisions for you. Both documents work together to ensure that your medical care aligns with your desires.

The Benefits of a Living Will

A living will provides several key benefits:

– Control Over Medical Decisions: A living will ensures that your personal beliefs and preferences about medical care are followed, even if you are unable to express them yourself. Without a living will, decisions about life-sustaining treatment could be left to family members who may not know your wishes or may disagree about what’s best for you.

– Prevents Family Conflict: One of the most challenging situations for families is having to guess a loved one’s healthcare preferences in difficult circumstances. A living will takes the burden off your loved ones by making your intentions clear, which can prevent conflicts or uncertainty during an emotionally charged time.

– Peace of Mind: Knowing that your wishes will be honored provides peace of mind for both you and your family. You can rest assured that you will receive the type of care you want, and your family won’t have to make agonizing decisions on your behalf.

Ohio’s Living Will Law

Under Ohio law, a living will only takes effect when a physician determines that you are terminally ill or permanently unconscious and unable to make your own medical decisions. You can specify which types of life-sustaining treatment you do or do not want, including the use of feeding tubes, ventilators, and resuscitation.

Ohio law also allows you to update or revoke your living will at any time, as long as you are of sound mind. This flexibility allows you to adjust your preferences as your circumstances or medical beliefs change.

Why You Should Have a Living Will

Having a living will in place is essential for anyone who wants control over their medical treatment at the end of life. Without a living will, your family and medical providers may have to make assumptions about your preferences, which can lead to stress and uncertainty.

I understand how important it is to ensure your healthcare wishes are known and respected. Let me help you create a living will tailored to your needs, ensuring that your voice is heard when it matters most.

Schedule a free consultation today and take the first step toward peace of mind for you and your loved ones.