South Jersey estate planning 101: All about living wills

Life is erratic, and no one can predict the future. Estate planning tools allow you to decide how your real estate, investments, properties, and other assets are distributed among your heirs and loved ones. A Will allows you to decide about your estate after you are gone, but a Living Will is for uncertainties. No matter the circumstances, it is best to work with a South Jersey estate planning lawyer before planning or signing any document related to your estate. Here’s more on what you must know about living wills. 

The need for living wills

If you end up in a situation where you cannot make healthcare decisions for yourself, your living will can be a useful instrument for people responsible for your care. You can create a living will, which will state your preferences regarding healthcare and medical treatments. Decision-making can be a hard process for your loved ones during your tough times, but with a living will, you can ensure that your wishes are honored, and disputes are avoided. 

Working with an attorney

Estate planning lawyers agree that having a living will is a must for everyone, especially in today’s unpredictable times. Like any other document related to your estate, you should consider consulting an attorney for your living will. They can advise you on the dos and don’ts and suggest solutions that are specific to your circumstances. Yes, there are a few automated online services, but these don’t address case-specific concerns. Your lawyer will take care of the paperwork and ensure that your living will is in sync with NJ laws. 

Where to keep your living will?

You should share a copy of your living will with your physician and healthcare representative. Anyone who is expected to take decisions on your behalf (if needed) should have a copy. Also, keep the document in a safe place or with your attorney. If you need to change your living will at any point, contact an attorney, and they will help draft a new one. 

A Living Will is a legally binding document in New Jersey. Everyone who is directly responsible for your care must abide by the document. Don’t take it for granted. A Living Will gives you the right to choose for yourself, and you should exercise that right. You can find local estate planning lawyers through an online search or directly check websites like Justia and Nolo.