A Living Will is a document setting out someone's wishes that are to take effect during their lifetime in certain circumstances. The commonest example is that of someone who knows they are dying and that they will reach a point after which they will no longer want medical intervention and therefore wish to leave instructions dealing with such circumstances. Whilst there is no statutory basis for such a document, it may be sensible to leave clear written instructions of your wishes, even if these are not legally binding on your family and doctors, as they may assist in their decision-making and may be taken into account by the Courts.

The Government has issued guidelines to hospitals as to the procedure to be followed before marking someone's hospitals notes with "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR). One of the factors the doctors must consider is any "Living Will".

This is a sensitive topic but if you would like to discuss the possibility of making a Living Will then please contact us. If you are looking to appoint someone to manage your day-to-day affairs then please refer to our Power of Attorney section.