Maryland Estate Planning: Benefits of Having an Advance Health Care Directive (aka Advance Directive)

It can be difficult to think about the care and treatment we may want in the event we are incapable and unable to make our own health care decisions. However, creating an Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD), also known as simply an Advance Directive, is important for all individuals over 18 years of age as we may unexpectedly be in a position where we cannot speak for ourselves, such as an accident, severe illness, or other form of incapacitation.

Instead of adopting a one-size fits most form, an AHCD can be custom made to properly account for your medical concerns. Among your many options, you can appoint an agent who has power of attorney to make care and treatment decisions on your behalf and give instructions about your health care wishes. You can give detailed instructions about your health care wishes. You can do both: appoint an agent and give detailed instructions.

Having a thoughtful and well-crafted AHCD will ensure that your wishes are properly conveyed and provide your loved-ones with peace of mind knowing that your wishes are clearly stated.

To create an AHCD, at a reasonable fixed fee, or to discuss other estate planning matters, contact Maryland estate planning attorney Stephen J. Reichert at 410-299-4959, sreichert@reichertlegal.com or by clicking here.

Consultations are free and confidential. Day, evening and weekend appointments are available in office or at your residence. Mr. Reichert personally services clients in Baltimore, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Carroll County, Harford County, Frederick County and Montgomery County.