Dallas-Fort Worth Advance Directives Attorneys
You may have heard the term “advance directives,” and wondered how it might apply to you. Many people are unclear on what this means, but advance directives are simply legal documents that let you make your end-of-life decisions known so that your wishes are followed.
At Hales & Sellers, PLLC, in Dallas, we are here to help you make the kind of arrangements you want for yourself. This not only gives you peace of mind; it also provides your loved ones with your decisions, so there is no need for them to debate what should be done. Let’s speak today about putting advance directives in place.
Types Of Advance Directives In Texas
The kinds of advance directives you can establish are:
Living will/directive to physicians and family or surrogates: If you are incapacitated and cannot express your wishes about what end-of-life medical care to receive or not to receive, a living will communicates your preferences to your loved ones. You may, for example, indicate whether you want to receive life support.
Medical power of attorney/durable power of attorney for health care: This document allows you to choose a person (agent) to make your ongoing health care decisions if you are incapacitated. A medical power of attorney is important so that your wishes are followed as they would be if you were able to communicate them.
Do not resuscitate/DNR orders: People complete DNRs when they want to have a natural death instead of being resuscitated. You may still request other types of emergency medical treatment, including comfort care, which is given when a person is close to the end of their life.
If you have any questions about these documents, please contact us with your specific questions.
How We Help You Through The Process
While you can try to complete advance directives on your own, it is usually better to work with an experienced Texas estate planning lawyer. Partner Jack R. Hales, Jr. is a board-certified attorney in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. With his knowledge and experience leading the way, we can assist you with any advance directives questions or issues you may have.
The basic process involves answering your questions, discussing your goals for health care and end-of-life care, choosing agents you trust and ensuring the documents are signed correctly. Then we will distribute copies to you so you can give them to your agents and doctors.
Contact Us For Advance Directives Assistance
Please call us at 469-304-2819 or send us an email to get started on your advance directives. Your consultation is free.