How to Make a Living Will in Arizona
Making a living will is an essential step in estate planning, especially for individuals who want to ensure their medical wishes are respected in the event of their incapacity. In Arizona, the process of creating a living will is straightforward and can provide peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones. This article will guide you through the steps to make a living will in Arizona.
Understanding the Purpose of a Living Will
A living will, also known as an advance healthcare directive, is a legal document that outlines your healthcare preferences in case you are unable to communicate them. It typically includes instructions regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial nutrition and hydration, resuscitation, and the use of ventilators. By creating a living will, you can ensure that your end-of-life decisions align with your personal beliefs and values.
Step 1: Gather Information
Before drafting your living will, gather all the necessary information. This includes your personal and medical history, as well as the contact information for your healthcare providers and loved ones. It’s also essential to research the laws and regulations in Arizona regarding advance healthcare directives to ensure your document is legally binding.
Step 2: Choose a Healthcare Proxy
A healthcare proxy is someone you appoint to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Choose a person you trust to make these critical decisions, and inform them of your wishes. In Arizona, your healthcare proxy must be at least 18 years old and not your attending physician.
Step 3: Draft Your Living Will
You can draft your living will using a legal form provided by the State of Arizona or by consulting with an attorney. The document should include the following elements:
– Your name and date of birth
– The name of your healthcare proxy
– Your instructions regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial nutrition and hydration, resuscitation, and the use of ventilators
– Your preferences for palliative care and hospice care
– Any other medical treatments or interventions you wish to refuse or accept
Step 4: Sign and Witness Your Living Will
To make your living will legally binding, you must sign it in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public. The witnesses must be at least 18 years old and not your healthcare proxy or attending physician. In some cases, a notary public may also sign the document.
Step 5: Distribute Copies of Your Living Will
Provide copies of your living will to your healthcare proxy, healthcare providers, and any other individuals you trust. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy of your living will in a safe and accessible place, such as a safe deposit box or with your attorney.
Step 6: Review and Update Your Living Will
As your life circumstances change, it’s essential to review and update your living will accordingly. If you move to a different state or experience significant changes in your health, make sure to revise your document to reflect your current wishes.
In conclusion, making a living will in Arizona is a straightforward process that can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. By following these steps and ensuring your document is legally binding, you can ensure your healthcare preferences are respected in the event of your incapacity.
