Turning Your Life Support Off
30 March 2020
Do you want your life support turned off?
A Living Will is a document of what your wishes are if you are ever in a critical life-ending condition. This has no legal effect and is not binding on your family or the medical condition. However, if you ever where in the situation where you were needed to be resusucitated or subject to ongoing treatment to a terminal disease. A Living Will states what your wishes are and what you wanted when you had the capacity to make that decision.
What is a Living Will?
A Living Will is simply a written record of your wishes. Although it has no legal effect and is not binding on your family or the medical profession, it states what you wish to happen should you suffer an accident or illness and you are on life support or in a serious condition.
The Living Will can address such issues as resuscitation, treatment, prolonging of life; pain and distress relief and life support.
What are the advantages of a Living Will?
A Living Will can address some of those issues that not all people want to talk about. It can give medical staff, your family, and loved ones a clear indication of what you would like to have happen to you should you be unlikely to recover or, if you do recover, if your quality of life will be adversely affected.
You must be mentally capable and be in good health when you make a Living Will. This means that it is something that everyone should think about today as a serious accident or illness can occur at any time.
Do you need a Living Will?
Arrange a time to get a Living Will. Please note this article does not constitute legal advice and may be outdated.
Legal services
Moving into a retirement village represents one of life's most significant transitions, often involving substantial financial commitment and long-term lifestyle changes. In New Zealand, Occupation Right Agreements (ORAs) govern this unique form of housing arrangement, yet many prospective residents underestimate the complexity and legal implications of these documents. Ask yourself: would you ever sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement without a lawyer’s advice ? For most, the answer is an immediate ‘of course not.’ An Occupation Right Agreement ORA deserves the same level of care and due diligence, it’s just as significant, if not more so. As experienced property lawyers in Christchurch, Weston Ward and Lascelles have witnessed countless situations where inadequate understanding of ORA terms has led to disputes, civil litigation , and financial hardship – sources of avoidable and unnecessary stress for residents and their families. Seeking legal advice before you sign on the dotted line remains your best defence against unexpected complications. Don't let the excitement of finding your perfect retirement home cloud your judgment regarding this crucial legal document. Here’s how Weston Ward and Lascelles property lawyers help you: 1. Understand your visitor rights and restrictions Your ORA will detail specific provisions regarding visitors, including overnight stays, duration limits, and approval processes. Some villages impose strict restrictions on how long guests can stay or require advance notice or approval for extended visits. These limitations could significantly impact your social connections potentially limiting precious time with grandchildren or access to support during illness. It’s crucial these terms support your lifestyle.
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