advance directive

An advance directive is a legal document that takes effect if someone is unable to make decisions due to illness or incapacity. Several different types of advance directives exist. Some, such as a living will, give instructions on which measures can be used to prolong life.  Others simply name a surrogate decision-maker for medical questions. Different jurisdictions will generally have their own laws regarding different advanced directives. For instance, NY § 400.21-Advance Directives states its definition, elements, purpose, etc.

[Last reviewed in June of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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