Advance Directives in Texas
Advance directives are essential legal documents that allow you to communicate your healthcare wishes before an unexpected medical emergency occurs. These documents guide your family and healthcare providers if you become incapacitated or unable to make medical decisions for yourself.
While a Will addresses what happens after death, it does not control medical care during your lifetime. Advance directives ensure your preferences for treatment, life-sustaining measures, and end-of-life care are clearly documented. At The Law Office of Steve Ortega, PLLC, we help individuals and families create legally valid advance directives that provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind.
Why Advance Directives Are Important
Medical emergencies can happen suddenly due to illness, injury, or accident. Without advance directives in place, loved ones may be forced to make difficult healthcare decisions without knowing your wishes.
Advance directives allow you to:
-Maintain control over your medical treatment
-Reduce stress and conflict for family members
-Ensure healthcare providers follow your instructions
-Avoid court involvement or unwanted interventions
Planning ahead helps protect both you and your loved ones.
Define Your Medical Treatment Preferences
An advance healthcare directive allows you to clearly state your wishes regarding medical care, including decisions about life support, resuscitation, and other life-sustaining treatments. You may also specify how long you would want certain measures continued under specific circumstances.
At The Law Office of Steve Ortega, PLLC, we work closely with you to create customized advance directives that reflect your personal values and healthcare goals. Our goal is to make the process simple while ensuring your family is not burdened with making difficult medical decisions on your behalf.
Types of Advance Directives
Texas law recognizes several types of advance directives, including:
Living Will
A Living Will is a signed and witnessed legal document that instructs physicians on what medical treatment to provide if you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious and cannot communicate your decisions. Healthcare providers are legally required to follow the instructions outlined in your living will, ensuring your wishes are honored.
Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare allows you to appoint a trusted agent to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Because this person will have authority over important healthcare choices, selecting the right agent and clearly communicating your wishes is essential. The agent is legally required to act in accordance with your instructions.
Get Help Creating Advance Directives
Choosing the right advance directives depends on your personal circumstances, medical preferences, and long-term goals. Proper planning ensures your wishes are respected and your family is protected from uncertainty.
Contact The Law Office of Steve Ortega, PLLC today to speak with an experienced Texas estate planning attorney and begin creating advance directives that provide clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.