Every adult (18+) should have healthcare directives, regardless of age or health status. Young adults, especially college students, often don't realize that parents lose legal authority to make healthcare decisions or even receive information once a child turns 18. For Wakulla families with college students, these documents are particularly important.

Your healthcare surrogate should be someone who:

• Understands and will honor your wishes even if they disagree personally
• Can make difficult decisions during emotional times
• Is likely to be available when needed
• Can communicate effectively with medical professionals
• Is trustworthy and will act in your best interest You should also name at least one alternate surrogate in case your first choice is unavailable.

A healthcare surrogate is specifically authorized to make medical decisions if you cannot. A durable power of attorney typically covers financial and legal matters. Both are essential documents that serve different purposes in your estate plan. As your Wakulla attorney, I can help you understand how these documents work together to provide comprehensive protection.

In Florida, a living will must be:

• In writing
• Signed by the principal (you)
• Witnessed by two adults (at least one witness cannot be a spouse or blood relative) Florida does not require notarization of healthcare directives, though it is often recommended. The document becomes effective when your physician determines you have a terminal condition, end-stage condition, or are in a persistent vegetative state.

Yes, Florida generally recognizes valid healthcare directives from other states. However, healthcare providers may be more familiar with Florida documents and more comfortable following them. If you've recently moved to Wakulla County, it's advisable to update your healthcare directives to ensure they comply with Florida's specific requirements.

This is Florida's version of what many states call a "medical power of attorney." It allows you to name someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you cannot communicate or make informed decisions. Florida law provides specific provisions for this document, including optional language that allows your surrogate to act immediately while you retain the right to override their decisions.

Florida law allows you to include mental health treatment decisions in your standard healthcare surrogate designation. However, in some cases, a separate document specifically addressing mental health treatment might be advisable. We can discuss whether this is appropriate for your situation during your consultation.

Yes, healthcare providers are legally and ethically obligated to follow valid healthcare directives. However, for them to be honored, providers must know they exist. It's important to:

• Give copies to your primary physician for your medical records
• Provide copies to your surrogate and alternate surrogate
• Bring copies if you're admitted to a hospital
• Consider carrying a wallet card noting their existence

Without healthcare directives, if you become unable to communicate:

• Medical decisions may be made by family members who might not know your wishes
• Family disagreements about your care could arise without clear guidance
• Court proceedings might be necessary to appoint a guardian
• Your treatment preferences might not be followed
• Loved ones may face additional stress during an already difficult time

Yes. Beyond the standard provisions, you can include specific instructions about treatments you would or would not want. This might include dialysis, blood transfusions, experimental treatments, or specific religious or cultural considerations. I help Wakulla residents customize their directives to reflect their personal values and preferences.

A living will can be as general or specific as you prefer. Some people want to provide broad guidelines based on quality of life considerations, while others prefer to address specific medical interventions. We'll discuss your preferences to create documents that accurately reflect your wishes without causing confusion for healthcare providers.

Absolutely. You can revoke or change your healthcare directives at any time as long as you have capacity. The revocation can be written or verbal, but it's best to create new documents to ensure clarity. If your wishes or surrogate selection changes, it's important to update your documents and provide new copies to relevant parties.

Healthcare directive documents are $100 each when added to any estate plan, or a complete incapacity planning package (including durable power of attorney, healthcare surrogate, living will, and HIPAA authorization) is available for $250. These flat fees include consultation, document preparation, and proper execution with witnesses.

Yes. In addition to physical copies, I provide secure digital copies of all your healthcare directives. This allows you and your loved ones to access these important documents from smartphones or computers in case of emergency, particularly valuable for Wakulla residents who travel or spend time on the water.

Review your healthcare directives every 3-5 years or after major life events (marriage, divorce, death of your named surrogate, significant health diagnosis, or move to a new state). Medical technology and treatments evolve, and your own preferences might change over time. Periodic review ensures your documents remain current with your wishes.

Yes. I encourage clients to have family conversations about their healthcare preferences. During our document signing, I'm happy to explain your choices to family members you bring along, helping them understand the legal and practical aspects of these important documents. This open communication often provides peace of mind for everyone involved.