Living Will Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Living Will.

(n) A Living Will refers to a legal document in which an individual outlines their desires regarding their medical treatment in situations where they might be unable to express informed consent. This document is typically brought into effect when a person becomes too ill or incapacitated to communicate. It can help guide decisions about life-sustaining treatments, potentially allowing a patient to pass away with dignity and also protecting the attending physician from liability.