---
title: What is the purpose of a living will and do I need one?
description: "\"Discover the importance of a living will and how it can protect your wishes in the event of incapacitation. Legal Faqs offers expert insights on what a living will entails and whether you should consider having one. Don't wait until it's too late, learn about living wills today.\""
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 March 31, 2023

# What is the purpose of a living will and do I need one?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

The purpose of a living will is to provide instructions for your medical care if you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for yourself. This document outlines your preferences for life-sustaining treatment, such as whether or not you want to be put on a ventilator or receive CPR.

A living will is typically included in a larger document called an advance directive or healthcare proxy, which also appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

Whether or not you need a living will depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. However, it is generally recommended for anyone over the age of 18, regardless of their health status. A living will can give you peace of mind that your wishes will be respected in case of a medical emergency.

It is important to note that the legal requirements for a valid living will may vary between states or countries. Additionally, a living will is not a substitute for a comprehensive estate plan, which may also include a will, trusts, and other documents.

If you are considering creating a living will, it may be helpful to consult with an estate planning attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure that your document meets all legal requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.

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