March 2022.
“We need to update our wills,” he said. “Yes,” she added, “and we need powers of attorney, and medical directives.”
The attorney nodded toward her. “Actually, those documents are at least as important as your wills. Your POAs and directives are used for you while you’re alive. Your wills don’t become effective until you’re deceased.”
They pondered and he affirmed, “Never thought of it that way, but of course. Where do we start?”
After discussing who would serve as agent under the POA and directive, and the reasons for the length of the POA (see last month’s article), we discussed the terms of the directive.
“The directive is both a POA for medical purposes, and a statement about your future care. Because I’m not a medical doctor I don’t advise on your end-of-life care. But the document does provide that, if you are on life support and there’s no hope of recovery, you not remain on life support for more than 60 days. That’s an attempt to balance ‘I want a fighting chance’ and ‘I don’t want to lie there like a vegetable forever.’”
He was adamant: “I don’t want to linger! If there’s no hope, just let me go, right away!” She affirmed, “I respect that,” but then quickly added, “but I really want all available care. I don’t want to die of starvation.”
The attorney suggested that in addition to the medical directive from the firm, they complete the Maryland medical order for life-sustaining treatment, or “MOLST,” available online at marylandmolst.org. “You can fill it out yourself, or in consultation with your doctor. Either way, you can put on record your intentions about these most vital issues.”
“Now as to the will update …” stay tuned for the next exciting episode of “Direct Benefit!”
“Talk to Tim!” Call 301-829-3778 or schedule online
Attorney Tim Barkley
The Tim Barkley Law Offices
One Park Avenue
P.O. Box 1136
Mount Airy
Maryland 21771
(301) 829-3778
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