NC “Will to Live” Durable Power of Attorney
Most people who execute living wills, health care powers of attorney and other advance directives express their desire to not have their lives prolonged if terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state.
However, there are some who believe that all or many measures should be taken to prolong their lives. The North Carolina statutory documents are not really designed for this purpose. Thanks to a client, I recently discovered the “Will to Live” Durable Power of Attorney, which is designed for persons who want to be kept alive by artificial nutrition hydration and nutrition, as well as other life-prolonging measures under most circumstances.
This document does meet the NC statutory requirements. Just as with the standard living will, I would encourage those who are interested in using it to discuss it with both their physician and their estate planning attorney.
