Homepage Valid Living Will Template Free Living Will Document for Texas State

Document Sample

Texas Living Will

This document is a Living Will in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas. It allows you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event you become incapacitated and are unable to communicate your desires.

I, [Your Full Name], residing at [Your Address], born on [Your Date of Birth], hereby declare that this is my Living Will.

In the event that I am diagnosed with a terminal condition or become permanently unconscious, and if I am unable to communicate my preferences regarding medical treatment, I have made the following decisions:

  1. Life-Sustaining Treatments: I choose to [choose one]:
    • Receive life-sustaining treatments.
    • Not receive life-sustaining treatments.
  2. Specific Instructions: I want to include the following instructions regarding my treatment: [Provide any specific instructions or wishes]
  3. Organ Donation: Upon my death, I wish to [choose one]:
    • Donate my organs and tissues.
    • Not donate my organs and tissues.

By signing this document, I confirm that I am of sound mind and am making these decisions voluntarily. This Living Will expresses my wishes and should be followed by all healthcare providers.

Signed on this [Date] day of [Month], [Year].

Signature: ____________________________

Printed Name: [Your Full Name]

Witness: ____________________________

Printed Name: _______________________

Form Data

Fact Name Description
Purpose A Texas Living Will allows individuals to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their preferences.
Governing Law The Texas Living Will is governed by the Texas Health and Safety Code, specifically Chapter 166.
Eligibility Any adult who is at least 18 years old and of sound mind can create a Living Will in Texas.
Witness Requirements The document must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to the person or beneficiaries of the estate.
Revocation A Living Will can be revoked at any time by the individual, through verbal or written communication.
Healthcare Proxy A Living Will can be combined with a Medical Power of Attorney, allowing someone to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the individual.
Storage It is advisable to keep the Living Will in a safe place and share copies with family members and healthcare providers.

Texas Living Will - Usage Guidelines

Completing the Texas Living Will form is an important step in ensuring your healthcare preferences are honored. After filling out the form, it must be signed and witnessed according to Texas law. This will ensure that your wishes are legally binding and respected in medical situations.

  1. Begin by downloading the Texas Living Will form from a reliable source or obtain a physical copy.
  2. Read the instructions carefully to understand each section of the form.
  3. Fill in your full name at the top of the form.
  4. Provide your date of birth to verify your identity.
  5. Indicate your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment clearly.
  6. Specify any additional wishes you may have regarding your healthcare.
  7. Sign the form in the designated area, ensuring that your signature is clear and legible.
  8. Have the form witnessed by two individuals who are not related to you and who will not benefit from your estate.
  9. Ensure that the witnesses also sign the form in the appropriate places.
  10. Make copies of the completed form for your records and for your healthcare provider.

Once you have completed these steps, store the original document in a safe place and share copies with your family and healthcare providers to ensure your wishes are known.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Texas Living Will form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your wishes are clearly expressed. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid:

  • Do read the entire form carefully before filling it out.
  • Do make sure you understand the medical terms used in the document.
  • Do discuss your wishes with family members or loved ones.
  • Do sign and date the form in front of a notary public or witnesses as required.
  • Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed to do so.
  • Don't use vague language when describing your medical preferences.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Common mistakes

  1. Failing to clearly identify the declarant. Ensure that your name and personal details are accurate and complete.

  2. Not specifying treatment preferences. Be explicit about the types of medical treatments you do or do not want.

  3. Overlooking witness signatures. Texas law requires two witnesses to sign the form; neglecting this step can invalidate your wishes.

  4. Using outdated forms. Always use the most current version of the Texas Living Will form to ensure compliance with state laws.

  5. Leaving out a date. Failing to date the document can lead to confusion about when the wishes were expressed.

  6. Not discussing the Living Will with family. Open conversations can help ensure that your loved ones understand your wishes.

  7. Assuming that a Living Will is the same as a Power of Attorney. These documents serve different purposes and should not be confused.

  8. Neglecting to review and update the document regularly. Life changes, and so may your preferences; keep your Living Will current.

  9. Ignoring state-specific requirements. Be aware of any unique stipulations that Texas may have regarding Living Wills.

  10. Not keeping copies in accessible locations. Ensure that your Living Will is easily found by your family or healthcare providers when needed.