Healthcare Directives
Your voice matters—even when you can’t speak for yourself. At Stephen B. Clemmer Law Office, we help you create Healthcare Directives that clearly outline your medical wishes and designate someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
Healthcare planning isn’t just about documents—it’s about peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
What is a Healthcare Directive?
- A Healthcare Directive—also called an Advance Directive or Medical Power of Attorney—is a legal document that expresses your medical care preferences and appoints a trusted person to make healthcare decisions if you’re not able to.
- It includes a living will (your wishes for life-sustaining treatment) and a medical power of attorney (who can speak for you).
- Without one, your family may face confusion, disagreement, or delays in getting you proper care.
- In California, medical providers are required to follow a valid healthcare directive.
- It’s a key part of any estate plan, especially for those undergoing surgery, managing a chronic illness, or simply planning ahead.
Why Choose Us for Healthcare Directives?
We make your care preferences clear and legally enforceable—without stress or confusion.
- Compassionate, Clear Guidance: We walk you through the “what ifs” with empathy and respect.
- Complete & Customized: We include both living will provisions and medical agent designations.
- California and Federally-Compliant Forms: Our directives meet all current state and federal healthcare requirements.
- Easy to Understand: No medical or legal jargon—just straightforward instructions.
- Part of a Full Plan: Seamlessly integrated with your will, trust, and power of attorney.
Benefits of a Healthcare Directive
Control Over Your Medical Care
You make your preferences known—so you’re not left to the default decisions of others.
Avoid Family Conflict
Prevents disagreement among loved ones during already difficult times.
Faster Emergency Decisions
Doctors can act quickly when a clear agent and treatment wishes are outlined.
Peace of Mind
You and your family will know there’s a plan in place when it matters most.
How We Deliver Healthcare Directives
Here’s how we create healthcare directives that reflect your exact wishes:
- Initial Discussion
We talk through your goals, values, and concerns about future medical care. - Agent Designation
You choose a trusted person to speak for you when you can’t. - Document Drafting
We create a clear, legally binding directive—tailored to your preferences. - Review & Sign
You review the document with our guidance, then sign it with proper witnesses or notarization. - Storage & Copies
We advise where to store the directive and how to share it with family and your physician.
FAQ About Healthcare Directives
Is this the same as a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)?
Not exactly. A healthcare directive can include DNR preferences but covers a broader range of medical choices and authority.
Who should I name as my agent?
Someone you trust to follow your wishes, stay calm under pressure, and communicate clearly with doctors.
Can I change my directive later?
Yes. You can update or revoke it at any time, as long as you are mentally competent.
Is a healthcare directive required by law?
No, but without one, medical decisions may be delayed or made by someone you wouldn’t choose.
What if I move to another state?
Most states honor California directives, but we recommend reviewing it with a local attorney if you relocate.
Does this apply during surgery?
Yes. It helps clarify who can make decisions and what care you want if complications arise.
Contact Us to Create Your Healthcare Directive Today!
- Call: (562) 901-2419
- Email: stephen@clemmerlaw.com
- Serving: Los Angeles and Orange Counties
