Making Your Wishes Known Through Medical Directives

A common mistake is assuming that your loved ones would know your wishes if something happened to you. The reality is that they might not know. If it’s not in writing, they might override your wishes (even with the best intentions) or they might lack the legal standing to tell your doctors what to do.

Medical directives are an important part of a customized estate plan. These legal documents ensure your wishes are respected and give clear direction to physicians and caregivers. The attorneys of Corliss Law Group can help you draft a living will and appoint a medical advocate.

A Health Care Proxy To Speak For You

Under the New York Health Care Proxy Law, you can designate a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or unable to express your wishes. This is also sometimes called health care power of attorney.

Your proxy is empowered (and required) to follow your wishes regarding emergency interventions, surgery and other care if that day ever comes. Meanwhile, you will have peace of mind that your chosen proxy would advocate for you and give instructions to your physicians. We help you decide on the right person and set the parameters.

A Living Will For End-Of-Life Care

A living will, also called an advance directive, puts your wishes in writing regarding life support, heroic measures and palliative care in end-of-life situations. For example, do you want to be resuscitated if your heart stops? Would you want to be kept alive if you were in a coma or if your brain activity ceased? Do you want to be sedated at the end? And so on. Many families are left guessing – or squabbling – when there is no living will to answer these questions.

We provide knowledgeable and compassionate guidance for these uncomfortable but necessary discussions. Our attorneys will guide you through specific scenarios so that your medical providers have clear instructions and your family members are spared from agonizing decisions.

Start The Discussion

Corliss Law Group provides comprehensive estate planning services in Westchester as well as Putnam County, Manhattan and Dutchess County. We invite you to arrange an initial meet-and-greet by calling 914-712-6404 or by contacting us online.