About living wills

Living wills, often called "Health Care Directives," are documents that instruct healthcare providers about the conditions under which you do not want to be artificially sustained by life support. While it is uncomfortable to think about this issue, almost fifty percent of us will be incapacitated to some extent prior to death. Therefore, a living will is an imperative device to protect ourselves and ensure that our wishes are carried out. Moreover, a properly executed living will prevents a contest between family members, and avoid situations akin to the Terri Schiavo case.

With the personal matter of Terri Schiavo in the news, many people are thinking about how they can protect themselves. If you do not have a living will, decisions regarding your health care are left to family members, and often they cannot agree or are in conflict about your wishes. A living will ensures that your wishes are respected and will be followed.

We include living wills (powers of attorney) with all of our estate planning packages, including wills and living trusts. If you are simply seeking a living will and the associated powers of attorney, we would be happy to prepare these documents for you at a discounted flat fee of $250. It is so important that each and every one of us have these documents in place. The flat fee includes the initial consultation with an attorney and will be current with all HIPPA requirements to ensure your maximum protection.

For more detailed explanation of living wills (advance health care directives) please read more of the information on this web site, or contact the San Diego attorneys of Achtel Law Firm. Please contact us via our online contact form or by phone toll-free (800-361-1961) or in San Diego at 858-350-3124.