The Importance Of A Living Will In Tampa Estate Planning
Top priorities when creating a Tampa estate plan are conveying final wishes and providing for loved ones. A will is perfect for this task and dictates how property and assets are distributed, but there are other important issues you need to address.
One of the most critical aspects of planning for the future is ensuring that you get the type of medical care you want in the event you are incapacitated or unable to communicate. Our Tampa estate planning lawyer explains how a living will can help and the ways it protects you and your loved ones.
What Is a Living Will, And Why Do Tampa Residents Need One?
A living will is a type of advance directive. Under the Florida Statutes, it conveys your preferences regarding medical care if an incapacitating accident or illness leaves you unable to communicate your preferences.
Living wills in Florida specifically apply to end-of-life care and situations where you may be terminally ill, in a vegetative state, or otherwise unable to make decisions for yourself. Common scenarios covered by a Tampa living will include:
- End-of-life care: Your preferences for whether or not to use life-sustaining treatments if you’re terminally ill.
- Life support: Instructions on whether you want to be placed on a ventilator or have other forms of life support if you are in a coma or vegetative state.
- Palliative care: Instructions on pain management or comfort care.
- Organ donation: Your wishes regarding the donation of organs or tissues in the event of your death.
Why a Living Will Is Necessary in Tampa Estate Planning
A living will is one of several advance directives the Florida Department of Health advises all residents to have in place. Reasons why it is so necessary in Tampa estate planning include:
- Protects your autonomy: It gives you control over your healthcare, preserving your right to make decisions about your body and medical care.
- Avoids unnecessary treatment: Without a Living Will, healthcare providers may be legally obligated to administer life-saving treatments, even if you would not want them.
- Helps those closest to you: In difficult times, family members struggle to make medical decisions and often feel responsible for the outcome. A living will provides them with the guidance they need to follow your wishes, reducing stress and conflicts.
To create a living will in Florida, consult a Tampa estate planning attorney to ensure you have the appropriate forms and that your living will complies with Florida law. Then, clearly outline your preferences, sign in front of two impartial witnesses, and provide copies to your healthcare providers and trusted family members.
Contact Our Experienced Tampa Estate Planning Lawyer For Help Creating Your Living Will
Healthcare decisions are deeply personal and should be respected. A Tampa living will plays a vital role in getting the care you want, protects your family, and avoids confusion among medical providers.
Bubley & Bubley, P.A. is here to help you put a living will and other vital documents in place. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced Tampa estate planning lawyer.
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0765
floridahealth.gov/provider-and-partner-resources/research/alzheimers-symposium/EndOfLifeResources.html/Sections/0765.303.html
