Most people are familiar with a “Will.” We use Wills to direct who we want to receive our things after we die. There is also a document called a “Living Will.” The documents sound similar, and both are an important part of any estate plan. However, they are two very different documents with very different purposes.
A Will applies only upon your passing. A Living Will applies only while you are alive. Also, a Will addresses your assets and has nothing to do with your health. On the other hand, a Living Will addresses your health issues and has nothing to do with your assets.
A Will also serves another important function. A Will allows parents of young children to name their desired guardians for those children should the parents pass away. It is extremely important for every adult, especially a parent, to have a Will.
A Living Will is also critically important. A Living Will allows you to state what you want done should you end up on life support with no chance of recovery. Specifically, a Living Will is the document that tells health care providers under what conditions you want to be removed from life support. Every adult should also have a Living Will.
If your wishes are not clear, loved ones and health care providers will be left to try and figure out what you would have wanted. Even if the answer seems obvious to you, without a Living Will, it may not be clear to your loved ones, especially while they are already trying to deal with the grief of potentially losing you. Without a Living Will, serious family disputes about your care can arise. It is not fair to your family to be left in this situation without proper, clear direction from you.
Do not let your family be caught in that extraordinarily painful situation. Come to a free, no obligation presentation and find out answers to important questions that will help protect you and your estate.
*Steve Wright is an Idaho licensed attorney. This column is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice, which requires a specific discussion of specific circumstances.
© 2025 Steven J Wright