Michigan Estate Planning FAQs

• Q: What Other Factors Should I Consider In Preparing My Advance Directive?
  A: Who would you like to make treatment decisions for you, if you become unable to so? How do you feel about ventilators, surgery, resuscitation (CPR), drugs or tube … More
• Q: Must I Make Decisions Now About My Future Medical Treatment?
  A: No. You do not have to have a durable power or living will and you do not have to tell anyone your wishes. You can still make treatment choices while you are … More
• Q: What Should I Do If I Want An Advance Directive?
  A: You can download one from the Legal Resource Center. Forms are also available from the State Bar of Michigan, the Michigan State Medical Society, your state … More
• Q: What Are The Technical Requirements Of A Durable Power Of Attorney For Health Care?
  A: The declaration must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two adults. There must be a written acceptance by the proxy, in language set forth in the law. … More
• Q: What Are The Requirements For A Living Will?
  A: Since there is no law, there are no formal requirements. But it is strongly recommended the document be entitled "LIVING WILL;" be dated; signed by you; and signed by … More
• Q: What Is The Purpose Of Having Witnesses?
  A: If there is a dispute later, witnesses can testify that when you signed the document, you knew what you were doing and were not being pressured by anyone.
• Q: What Should I Do With An Advance Directive After It Is Signed?
  A: Give the original of a durable power of attorney for health care to the patient advocate (or at least make sure he or she knows where it is). Give a photo static copy … More
• Q: How Often Should I Review My Advance Directive?
  A: Since medical technology is constantly changing, and since there may be changes in your outlook, it would be wise to review an advance directive once a year. Upon … More
• Q: If I Write An Advance Directive, Can I Change My Mind Later?
  A: Yes. You can change the document at any time. It is a good idea to review your advance directive each year to be sure it still says how you want to be treated and … More
• Q: What Should I Do If I Write A New Advance Directive?
  A: Whether you choose a different person to be patient advocate or alter your wishes for care, try to get back all copies of the old document and destroy them. Distribute … More
• Q: Must A Hospital Or Nursing Home Comply With The Directions Of My Patient Advocate?
  A: Beginning December 1, 1991, federal law required hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers that receive federal funds to inform incoming patients of … More

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