Living Wills:

In light of the recent case of Terri Schiavo, many people are now wondering if they should prepare a Living Will. Without a doubt, having a Living Will (or advanced directive) will assure that your wishes concerning life-sustaining measures are considered and honored in the event of your incompetency or incapacity, such as a terminal condition or state of permanent unconsciousness. Additionally, having a Living Will will ease the suffering and uncertainty that your surviving loved ones will undoutedly experience if decisions concerning such treatment need to be made for you.

As part of your Living Will Declaration, you should appoint a surrogate who clearly understands your feelings and beliefs concerning life-sustaining treatments. This surrogate will then be authorized to make medical treatment decisions on your behalf if it becomes necessary.

Obviously, if Terri Schiavo had prepared a good Living Will, it would have eliminated the prolonged uncertainty and the lengthy court battles which ensued due to the differing opinions of her family members.

Pennsylvania state law provides specific guidelines for the preparation of a Living Will Declaration, and an attorney is best suited to prepare such an important document. Once prepared and signed, your Living Will Declaration should be provided to your doctor, your spouse or a close family member or friend, and perhaps your lawyer, so that it will be readily available in the event that it is needed.