A medical crisis often leaves families in a state of emotional turmoil, forced to make life-altering decisions under extreme pressure. An Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD) is a legally binding document that removes the guesswork from your medical care. It provides your doctors and loved ones with a clear roadmap of your preferences when you cannot speak for yourself.
At the Law Offices of W. Steven Chou, we help clients across Orange and Los Angeles counties secure their future with robust incapacity planning. With over 25 years of experience, Attorney Steven Chou ensures your directive is both legally sufficient under the California Probate Code and a true reflection of your personal values.
In many states, people use separate documents like a “Living Will” and a “Medical Power of Attorney.” However, California has streamlined this process. A modern California Advance Health Care Directive combines two vital functions into a single, cohesive entity.
This section allows you to appoint a Health Care Agent (also known as a healthcare proxy). This person is granted the legal authority to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Whether you are in a temporary coma or facing a long-term illness like dementia, your agent ensures your treatment aligns with your wishes.
This is where you outline exactly what treatments you want or do not want. While a “Living Will” traditionally focused only on end-of-life care, a California AHCD is broader. It covers:
For families in affluent communities like Irvine, Coto de Caza, and San Marino, an Advance Directive is not just about medical care; it is about maintaining control and privacy.
To be legally sufficient in California, your Advance Health Care Directive must be executed with specific formalities. It must be either acknowledged before a Notary Public or signed by two qualified witnesses.
Under California law, your witnesses cannot be your health care agent, your health care provider, or an employee of the facility where you receive care. We provide the oversight necessary to ensure your documents meet these strict standards, preventing any challenges to your agent’s authority during a crisis.
An Advance Health Care Directive is a gift of clarity to those you love. It allows you to face the future with confidence, knowing that your dignity and your choices are legally protected throughout Orange and Los Angeles counties.
Is your family prepared to speak for you if you cannot?
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be construed as legal advice for any individual or for any situation or case. The information provided is neither intended to create an attorney-client privilege, nor does viewing this website create an attorney-client privilege.