Living Will in Florida

A Living Will is a written statement that tells your doctors and loved ones what kind of medical care you want—or don’t want—if you are unable to communicate and your condition is terminal, end-stage, or you are in a persistent vegetative state.

This document is different from your Last Will & Testament, which deals with your property after death. A Living Will only applies while you are alive and unable to speak for yourself.

What a Living Will Covers

Your Living Will can address:

• Whether you want life-prolonging treatments such as ventilators or feeding tubes.
• Decisions about resuscitation (CPR) in certain medical situations.
• Your preferences for pain relief and comfort care.
• Organ and tissue donation wishes.

Why It’s Important

Without a Living Will, your doctors must follow Florida’s default rules for life-prolonging treatment, which may not reflect your wishes. This can:

• Create uncertainty or disagreement among family members.
• Result in treatments you would not have chosen.
• Delay decisions during critical moments.

A properly written Living Will ensures your choices are clear, reducing stress for your loved ones and your health care providers.

How a Living Will Works with a Health Care Surrogate

A Living Will often works hand-in-hand with your Designation of Health Care Surrogate.

• Your Living Will states your medical preferences.
• Your Health Care Surrogate is the person you authorize to speak for you and make decisions.
  Together, they give both guidance and authority to carry out your wishes.