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As competent adults, we have the right, guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, to make decisions for ourselves regarding our use of artificial life support in the event that death is imminent or a state of coma or vegetation becomes permanent. Unfortunately, once in that state, we are not able to communicate how we would like life support systems to be handled in reference to our own medical care.
Today's life support systems encompass a wide range of medical therapies, from feeding tubes to heart/lung machines which can sustain the life of a human body for years, even if there is no clinical evidence that the brain is functioning or if a person has entered a persistent vegetative state (PVS). As evidenced by the Terri Schiavo case, there is quite a bit of legal grey area surrounding PVS, also known as cortical death, and whether or not individuals should remain on life support. With a living will, you can decide for yourself and hopefully avoid the legal back and forth of the Schiavo case.
A living will is a document which simply indicates whether or not you want to be kept on artificial life support. Indicate any special wishes or instructions and rest assured that if you change your mind or there is a change in medical technology, an Arizona living will is easily revoked at any time.
Included in the LegalZoom living will is a provision for health care power of attorney, meaning you grant a different person the right to make important health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. LegalZoom can help you quickly and easily take control of this difficult decision by preparing a customized Arizona living will online.
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