1. What is a healthcare directive, and why is it important?
A healthcare directive, also known as an advance directive or living will, is a legally binding document that outlines an individual’s preferences regarding medical treatment in the event they are unable to communicate those wishes themselves. It may be included in a durable power of attorney for healthcare.
This directive is a critical component of any comprehensive estate plan. It ensures that your medical decisions are made according to your values and that your loved ones are not left uncertain or burdened during a medical crisis. In Washington State, properly executed healthcare directives are enforceable, and medical professionals are required to follow them.
Attorney Jeanette Bowers Weaver provides thoughtful, legally sound guidance to clients in the greater Bellevue and Seattle areas who want to ensure their healthcare preferences are clearly documented and honored.
2. What is the difference between a living will and a healthcare power of attorney?
A living will allows you to state your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, or tube feeding, in situations where you are permanently unconscious or terminally ill.
A durable power of attorney for healthcare, on the other hand, authorizes a trusted person (known as your healthcare agent) to make medical decisions on your behalf when you are unable to do so. Together, these documents provide comprehensive coverage of your healthcare wishes and ensure someone is empowered to advocate for your best interests.
Jeanette Bowers Weaver works closely with clients to ensure both documents are clear, customized, and legally valid under Washington State law.
3. How should I choose a healthcare agent?
Selecting a healthcare agent is a highly personal decision. This individual should be someone you trust implicitly, who understands your healthcare values, and who can act decisively and confidently in high-pressure situations. It is also advisable to name an alternate agent in case the primary agent is unavailable or unwilling to serve.
Jeanette helps clients evaluate their options and document their choices clearly, ensuring that the appointed agent has the legal authority to act when needed.
4. Can I make changes to my healthcare directive after it’s signed?
Yes. As long as you remain mentally competent, you may revise or revoke your healthcare directive at any time. Life circumstances—such as marriage, divorce, diagnosis, or the loss of a loved one—often warrant a review and potential update of your directive.
Jeanette Bowers Weaver, PLLC provides ongoing support to clients who need to revisit or revise their healthcare documents, making it easy to ensure your estate plan stays aligned with your current wishes.
5. Is a healthcare directive recognized in Washington State?
Yes, Washington State law recognizes and enforces valid healthcare directives, including living wills and healthcare powers of attorney. However, the documents must meet certain legal standards in order to be effective.
Jeanette Bowers Weaver ensures that the healthcare directives she prepares comply with Washington State law and are tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual.
6. What happens if I don’t have a healthcare directive in place?
In the absence of a healthcare directive, the responsibility for making medical decisions often falls to close relatives. This can lead to delays, conflict, or court involvement—especially if family members disagree or if no clear next of kin is available.
By working with an experienced attorney like Jeanette Bowers Weaver, you can avoid these complications and provide your family with clarity, comfort, and legal authority in a time of uncertainty.
7. Do I need an attorney to create a healthcare directive?
While it’s possible to find generic forms online, there is no substitute for experienced legal guidance. An attorney ensures that your healthcare directive is legally enforceable, properly executed, and customized to reflect your specific needs and goals.
Jeanette Bowers Weaver is deeply familiar with Washington State law and the nuances of advance care planning. She helps clients create clear, durable directives that provide real protection—and peace of mind—for themselves and their families.
8. How can Jeanette Bowers Weaver assist with my healthcare directive?
Jeanette Bowers Weaver brings years of estate planning experience and a compassionate, client-focused approach to every healthcare directive she prepares. She takes the time to understand your values and priorities, explain your options in plain language, and ensure that your documents are both legally sound and easy to understand.
Clients throughout Northwest Washington rely on Jeanette to guide them through the process with professionalism and care. Whether you need a standalone directive or want to incorporate it into a broader estate plan, Jeanette Bowers Weaver offers trusted counsel and long-term support.
👉 Contact Jeanette Bowers Weaver to schedule a consultation.