When discussing wills, we usually refer to legal documents with instructions on distributing assets after a person’s death. However, an estate plan might also include another type of will: a living will. This document indicates end-of-life plans and preferences, ensuring your wishes are honored, even if you cannot vocalize them yourself.
A living will can guide your family through challenging times. If you ever find yourself in a life-threatening situation, this document will indicate which treatments you are willing to participate in and for how long. Additionally, you can protect your values and preferences by guiding your loved ones through complicated medical decisions.
Who can make a living will in Illinois?
If you are a sound-of-mind adult living in Illinois, you can make a living will. This document can complement your estate plan, adding to other wishes you might have. Despite your age, a living will can give you and your family peace of mind.
Even if you are healthy and young, starting your estate plan early can be helpful in the long run. Anybody can get into an accident, and it is best to be prepared for life’s challenges. As with other estate planning documents, a living will can be modified if your preferences change.
Drafting a living will
If you want to write a living will, you can contact an attorney who guides you through the process. Even though you could draft it yourself, a legal counselor can ensure the document complies with local laws and is legally valid. Additionally, you can consult with medical professionals and seek information about end-of-life procedures to establish your desires and limits.
Thinking about illnesses can be challenging, but doing so can help prevent future tension and conflicts among your loved ones. Therefore, a living will can provide clear instructions to medical practitioners and family members in tough times. This way, you could protect your family from added stress in an already complicated situation.
