Smart Legal Guide for Your Living Will – Australia
Understanding “Living Wills”: Frequently Asked Questions
Living Wills, also known as Advanced Decisions, are an important part of future planning and ensuring your wishes are respected when you are no longer able to communicate them. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about Living Wills.
1. What is a Living Will?
A Living Will, in the context of UK law, is a written statement detailing what medical treatment you would want to refuse if you were unable to make or communicate decisions about your treatment in the future. It’s important to note that this document only comes into effect if you are unable to make your own decisions.
🔹 A Living Will does not allow you to request certain treatments, only to refuse ones you do not want.
🔹 It is legally binding as long as it meets certain requirements.
2. Why do I need a Living Will?
You might consider writing a Living Will if you have strong feelings about a specific treatment or procedure, or if you want to ensure your wishes are followed in the future.
🔹 A Living Will ensures your wishes are respected, even when you can’t express them.
🔹 It can also provide guidance and peace of mind for your loved ones during a stressful time.
3. How do I make a Living Will?
You can make a Living Will by clearly specifying the treatments you want to refuse and circumstances in which you want to refuse them. It’s recommended to discuss your Living Will with a healthcare professional to ensure your wishes are clearly understood.
🔹 Your Living Will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed.
🔹 You must have the mental capacity to make the decision at the time of writing.
4. Can a Living Will be contested?
Yes, a Living Will can be contested, particularly if there is doubt about your mental capacity at the time of making it or if there is evidence that you might have changed your mind after the Living Will was written.
🔹 It is essential to review and update your Living Will regularly.
🔹 If your Living Will is contested, the courts may have to decide its validity.
Making a Living Will is a significant decision, and it’s crucial to ensure it accurately reflects your wishes. For more information and to create your own Living Will, visit [this link](https://www.lawdepot.ca/contracts/living-will-form/?pid=pg-J5UIASKEDL-living-will-formtextlink&loc=AU).
Also, be sure to check out our [LawDepot review](/lawdepot-review/) to understand more about the resources available to you when creating a Living Will.
If you’re ready to start creating your Your Living Will – Australia, consider using a trusted online service provider.