Will Your Advance Directives Be Honored in Other States?

October 4, 2019

For those who split their time between differentstates or relocate altogether, it is important to consider the ramificationsthat may have on your Advance Directives and Health Care Power of Attorneydocuments. Advance directives give instructions on the kind of medical care youwould like to receive should you become incapacitated and not able tocommunicate your wishes. The Health Care Power of Attorney designates an agentto carry out those wishes.

Each state law has its own requirements for thevalidity of both of these documents. Some require one witness signature whileothers require more than one. The best way to address this issue is to make alist of the states you frequent –

  • Places where you own real estate.
  • States where your children/grandchildrenreside that you visit.

Share this list with your estate planning attorney sothat your Advance Directives and Health Care Power of Attorney comply with therequirements of all the states on your list. You cannot predict where you willneed medical attention; however, if you know you tend to travel to these otherstates, you can take these preventative measures during the estate planningprocess to ensure your wishes are honored regardless of where you end upreceiving treatment.

If you need to draft or revise Advance Directives or a Health Care Power of Attorney, contact Stouffer Legal at 443-470-3599 in the Greater Baltimore area.

Next Up:
We can't wait to see you!
Today is the right day to take your first step. Click below to register for our next free workshop and learn what everyone is talking about.

Attending our next free Workshops is the best way to
Get Started on your New Estate Plan!
REGISTER FOR a WORKSHOP