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What’s the difference between a will and a living will?

A living will is the term used for advance medical directives or your Directives to Physicians and Family or Surrogates. It has nothing to do with what happens after death. And it doesn’t have anything to do with your property. Instead, a living will is used for you to tell your doctors if you do not want extraordinary care at end-of-life.

A will, on the other hand, is a document that explains what you want to happen to your property after you die and who you want to be in charge.

Are advance directives the same as do not resuscitate / DNR orders?

No. Your advance directives (also called a living will) are directives you put in place to specify your wishes for end-of-life care. DNR orders are doctor’s orders— something that your doctor actually must sign.

Will my power of attorney agent make health care decisions?

No. Typically, a power of attorney covers only decisions related to finances and property. McCreary Law Office often says it’s about the business side of your life. In Texas, we use a separate Medical Power of Attorney to designate who makes your medical decision. A well-drafted Medical Power of Attorney will also include language to make sure your medical agent is able to talk to your doctors.

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