Why a Living Will?
Recent advances in medical technology now make it possible to artificially
keep your body going long after there is any chance of you ever returning
to a normal life.
Hospitals, health care officials and doctors will do everything in their
power to keep your body functioning because of the legal and ethical
problems the would encounter without a clear directive from you or from
loved ones you may appoint through a Health Care Proxy.
What can a Living Will Do For You?
A Living Will allows you to clearly state your desire to be disconnected
from any machine or have any medical procedure discontinued if your
physical or mental condition is so impaired that you are unable to return
to a normal life.
A Living Will can help you to:
put a peaceful end to your suffering;
prevent the emotional turmoil that keeping your body going can
inflict on your family;
relive those closest to you of a financial burden that could shatter
their lives.
A Living Will contains space for you to add any directions or provisions
you may want.
What is the Legal Status of Living Wills?
A Living Will protects your interests by asserting your constitutional
and common law right to refuse unwanted medical treatment that may unnecessarily
prolong your suffering.
In the landmark case of the United States Supreme Court concerning
the right to die (Cruzan v. Harmon), the Court recognized the constitutional
right of an individual to refuse unwanted medical or life-sustaining
treatment. They went on to say that there is a right to refuse treatment
only if a patient’s wishes could be established by “clear
and convincing evidence.”
Most sates now have laws that allow a competent adult to make his or
her wishes known through a Living Will.
In the states that do not as yet have such laws, Living Wills have
been upheld and referred to in their court decisions.
A Living Will is the best evidence of your wishes and best protection
for the emotional and financial well being of you and your family. Plan
ahead.
Contact us for new clients only. Existing clients please call.
WE ARE LAWYERS FOR LEGAL PLANS
Call today to see if your plan is one of them
CONTACT US AT: GREENBERG & MEROLA, Attorneys at Law 521 5th Avenue, Suite 1700, New York, NY 2280 Grand Avenue, Suite 2280, Baldwin, NY Conference Offices: Nassau, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester, Bronx, Suffolk
521 5th Ave., Ste. 1700, New York NY
2280 Grand Ave., Ste. 202, Baldwin NY
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1129 Northern Blvd., Manhasset NY
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Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Attorney Advertising. This website provides general information. Due to complexities and constant changes in the law, exceptions to general principles of law, and variations of state laws, seek professional legal advice before acting on any matter!
Some of the information on this website only pertains to certain states. Accordingly seek professional legal advice before acting on any matter.