Wisconsin Living Wills, made easy

A living will is essential for any adult, regardless of age or health status, who wants to ensure their medical care preferences are followed in case they become incapacitated and unable to communicate their wishes. It provides clear instructions to healthcare providers and family members, helping to avoid disagreements and confusion during critical situations.

The terms can be confusing, but the documents are very different. A living will focuses on medical preferences and end-of-life care, outlining your wishes for treatment if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate. On the other hand, a last will & testament deals with the distribution of your assets and property after your death, as well as appointing guardians for minor children if necessary.

In Wisconsin, a living will is called a "Declaration to Physicians (Living Will)." - it may also be referred to as a "Power of Attorney for Health Care."

In Wisconsin, your agent is called a "Health Care Agent" or "Health Care Power of Attorney."

In Wisconsin, life-sustaining procedures may not be withheld or withdrawn from a pregnant patient if the procedures are necessary to maintain the patient's life or to prevent serious physical harm to the patient.

Pregnant women in Wisconsin should be aware that their advance directive may not be followed if life-sustaining treatment is needed for their health or the fetus's development, and they should discuss their wishes with their healthcare agent and medical providers.

In Wisconsin, a living will and a life insurance policy are separate entities and do not affect each other. A living will addresses healthcare preferences, while a life insurance policy provides financial support to beneficiaries.