Advance directives empower individuals to control their own medical care, even when they cannot speak for themselves. They help families avoid conflict, align treatment with values, and streamline decision-making for physicians. By outlining preferences on life-sustaining treatments, appointing a healthcare proxy, and designating a durable power of attorney for healthcare, you reduce guesswork during crises and ensure consistent care aligned with your goals.
A single, unified set of directives reduces confusion among family members and clinicians, supporting consistent choices that reflect your goals across settings and moments of care.
Our firm emphasizes clear communication, practical drafting, and thoughtful counseling to help you create durable directives that reflect your values and protect your loved ones.
Our team coordinates communications among family members and healthcare teams to ensure alignment with your directives.
An advance directive is a legal document that records your medical treatment preferences and designates who may make healthcare decisions on your behalf when you cannot communicate. It helps ensure care aligns with your values and reduces family stress during emergencies. To prepare one, begin with a thoughtful discussion with loved ones and an attorney to draft clear, enforceable language that complies with North Carolina law.
A healthcare proxy should be someone you trust to understand your values and communicate effectively with medical teams. Consider a person who is organized, reachable, and able to make difficult decisions under pressure. It’s wise to discuss your wishes with them before naming them in your documents. Your choice can be updated at any time as circumstances change.
Yes. North Carolina directives can be updated. You should review and revise directives after major life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a change in health. Ensure changes are properly witnessed and stored with your previously executed documents.
Yes, when properly drafted and executed according to state law. An AHCD and a healthcare proxy are binding tools that guide medical decisions if you cannot communicate. Regular review helps ensure ongoing validity and alignment with current statutes and personal wishes.
Without an advance directive, medical decisions may be made by default surrogates or hospitals, which might not reflect your preferences. This can create conflicts among family members and delays in care. Having directives helps protect your autonomy and provides clear guidance for your caregivers.
Store original documents in a secure, accessible location and provide copies to your healthcare proxy, physician, and family. Share with your hospital’s medical records department and consider digital backups. Regularly confirm that providers can locate and use the documents when needed.
Open communication is key. If family members disagree, refer to the written directives and the patient’s appointing documents. A mediator or attorney can help facilitate a respectful discussion to resolve differences while honoring the patient’s wishes.
Directives typically address medical treatments, but you can also specify preferences for comfort measures, hospital settings, and end-of-life care. Some decisions require separate forms or additional opinions, so work with an attorney to tailor documents to your needs.
Hospitals generally honor directives, especially when they are clearly documented and readily available in the patient’s medical records. If you are far from home, ensure copies are accessible to your primary care team and local providers, and keep a concise summary with you.
Costs vary by practice and geographic area, but many firms offer an initial consultation and predictable drafting fees. We provide transparent pricing and can tailor services to your needs, ensuring you receive comprehensive directives without unnecessary expenses.
