Free  Living Will Template for New Jersey Make My Living Will Online

Free Living Will Template for New Jersey

A New Jersey Living Will is a legal document that allows individuals to outline their preferences for medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate their wishes. This form provides guidance to healthcare providers and loved ones regarding end-of-life care. Understanding its importance can help ensure that personal healthcare choices are respected and followed.

Form Sample

New Jersey Living Will Template

This Living Will template is created in accordance with the laws of New Jersey. It is a legal document that allows you to express your wishes regarding medical treatment in the event you are unable to communicate those wishes yourself.

Please fill in the blanks as indicated below:

1. Personal Information:

  • Full Name: ____________________________
  • Address: ____________________________
  • City, State, Zip Code: ____________________________
  • Phone Number: ____________________________

2. Designation of Health Care Representative:

I, ____________________________, designate the following individual as my health care representative:

  • Name: ____________________________
  • Address: ____________________________
  • Phone Number: ____________________________

If the designated representative is unable or unwilling to act on my behalf, I would like to designate the following alternate:

  • Name: ____________________________
  • Address: ____________________________
  • Phone Number: ____________________________

3. Medical Treatment Wishes:

In the event that I am diagnosed with a terminal condition or am in a state of permanent unconsciousness, I wish for the following treatment decisions to be made on my behalf:

  1. Life-sustaining treatment: (choose one)
    • I do NOT wish to receive life-sustaining treatment.
    • I DO wish to receive life-sustaining treatment.
  2. Pain management:
    • I desire to receive pain management even if it may hasten the end of my life.
    • I do NOT desire pain management that may hasten the end of my life.

4. Signatures:

This Living Will is signed on this _____ day of ______________________, 20____.

Signature of Declarant: ____________________________

Witness Signature: ____________________________

Witness Signature: ____________________________

Note: It is advisable to have this document notarized for additional validation.

Misconceptions

Understanding the New Jersey Living Will form is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare preferences. Here are ten common misconceptions about this document:

  1. A Living Will is the same as a Last Will and Testament.

    A Living Will specifically addresses healthcare decisions, while a Last Will and Testament deals with the distribution of assets after death.

  2. You must have a lawyer to create a Living Will.

    While legal assistance can be helpful, individuals can create a Living Will on their own using state-provided forms.

  3. A Living Will only applies if you are terminally ill.

    This document can guide healthcare decisions in various situations, not just terminal illness, including persistent vegetative states.

  4. You cannot change your Living Will once it is signed.

    Individuals can update or revoke their Living Will at any time, as long as they are of sound mind.

  5. Your family members can override your Living Will.

    Healthcare providers must follow the directives outlined in your Living Will, regardless of family opinions.

  6. A Living Will is only for elderly individuals.

    Anyone over the age of 18 can create a Living Will to ensure their healthcare wishes are known.

  7. You need to have a witness present to sign a Living Will.

    In New Jersey, a Living Will does not require witnesses, although having them can add an extra layer of validity.

  8. A Living Will is the same as a Healthcare Proxy.

    A Living Will outlines your wishes, while a Healthcare Proxy designates someone to make decisions on your behalf.

  9. Your Living Will is automatically valid in other states.

    While many states recognize New Jersey Living Wills, it is advisable to check the specific laws in other states.

  10. A Living Will can only be used in hospitals.

    This document can guide decisions in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes and hospice care.

Key takeaways

When considering a New Jersey Living Will, it is essential to understand its purpose and implications. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • A Living Will allows individuals to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate.
  • This document specifically addresses end-of-life care and can guide healthcare providers and family members in making decisions that align with your values.
  • New Jersey law requires that the Living Will be signed in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public to be legally valid.
  • It is crucial to clearly state your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, and feeding tubes.
  • Review and update your Living Will periodically to ensure it reflects your current wishes and circumstances.
  • Discuss your Living Will with family members and healthcare providers to ensure they understand your wishes.
  • In New Jersey, a Living Will is part of a broader advance directive, which may include a healthcare proxy to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf.
  • Make copies of your Living Will and distribute them to relevant parties, including your healthcare provider and family members.
  • Understand that a Living Will can be revoked at any time, as long as you are mentally competent to do so.

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