The legal term for a living will is an ‘advance directive’. It is a statement expressing your views on how you would or would not like to be treated if you are unable to make decisions about your treatment yourself at the relevant time in the future.
A living will is not legally binding, but health professionals do have to take them into account when deciding on a course of action. Family and friends can also use them as evidence of your wishes.
Your directive could set out:
- Treatments that you are happy to have
- Treatments that you do not want, no matter how ill you are
- Treatments that you prefer not to have, and in what circumstances
- Who you would like to be consulted about your treatment at the time a decision needs to be made.
It can also include a specific refusal of treatment, which has a different legal status.
We are committed to protecting the rights and dignity of our individual clients. If you hold strong views about potential medical treatment then we can advise you regarding how your wishes can be communicated effectively to the medical community and your loved ones.
