Must I Have A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care?

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Must I Have A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care?

No. You have this option, but no one can require you to have a durable power of attorney. You can make your wishes known by talking with your family or doctor or by writing them down, but unless you have a durable power of attorney in place, if you become incapacitated then the court may need to formally establish a conservatorship or guardianship to give someone legal authority to make medical decisions for you.

Other Michigan Estate Planning FAQs

Q: What Is An Advance Directive?
A: Advance directives are documents signed by a competent person giving direction to health care providers about treatment choices in certain circumstances. There are two … More
Q: Must I Have An Advance Directive?
A: No. The decision to have an advance directive is purely voluntary. No family member, hospital or insurance company can force you to have one, or dictate what the … More
Q: Are There Different Types Of Advance Directives?
A: Yes. Two types are a durable power of attorney for health care and a living will.
Q: Why Have An Advance Directive?
A: Many people have strong feelings about the kind of medical care they would like to receive or refuse in certain circumstances. An advance directive allows you to … More
Q: What Is A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care?
A: It is a legal document that allows you to name anyone at least eighteen years old to be your advocate and make health care decisions for you. You can pick a family … More
Q: Is A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care Legally Binding In Michigan?
A: Yes, based on a recent state law.
Q: Who Is Eligible To Have A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care?
A: You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
Q: Must I Give Written Instructions About My Treatment?
A: No. You can simply name a patient advocate. But, remember that your advocate can only have lifesustaining care stopped if you say so in your durable power. It is … More
Q: What Is The Person To Whom I Give Decision-Making Power Called?
A: The person is known as a "patient advocate".
Q: When Can The Patient Advocate Act In My Behalf?
A: The patient advocate can make decisions for you only when you are unable to participate in medical treatment decisions.