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The Washington Living Will creates a record of the desired medical actions to take for a patient in the event of incapacitation. The form constitutes a series of possible selections made by an issuing principal to prepare an outline of treatment preferences they would like to assume or withhold. The paperwork is instituted should a case arise where communication of one’s own health care decisions cannot be asserted due to an unconscious state. The document allows a declarant to pick and choose additional options concerning the health institutions they will be placed in and if they would like to receive medication should they be in any pain. Additional space is allocated for the principal to make a statement to reflect their values as a guide to health care professionals to follow. Endorsement by the contributing parties is obligated to be overseen and confirmed by a notary, as well as two (2) legally satisfactory witnesses.

Laws

Statute – Washington Natural Death Act (R.C.W. § 70-122)

Definition – “Directive” means a written document voluntarily executed by the declarer generally consistent with the guidelines of R.C.W. § 70-122-020(3).

Signing Requirements – Signatures must be affixed by the principal and two (2) acceptable witnesses. Corroboration of the paperwork’s execution is mandated to be completed before a licensed notary official (§ 70-122-030).

Revocation – § 70-122-040