Health Care Proxy
Make sure someone you trust can step in
A health care proxy allows someone you choose to make medical decisions if you are unable to.
Summary: A health care proxy names the person who speaks for you with doctors and hospitals if you cannot speak for yourself. Every adult should have one, no matter your age or wealth.
What a health care proxy does
This document gives someone you trust the legal authority to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot.
Without one, decisions can be delayed
Without a health care proxy, your family may not be able to make medical decisions without court involvement.
This can create delays at the exact moment decisions need to be made.
Part of a complete plan
A health care proxy works alongside your broader estate plan to make sure both medical and financial decisions are covered.
The whole plan
Health Care Proxy works well with
Most estate plans pair these together so your wishes are covered no matter what comes up.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney allows someone you trust to manage financial and legal matters on your behalf.
Learn moreWills
A will ensures your assets are distributed the way you intend and gives your family clear direction when it matters most.
Learn moreTrusts
A trust based plan can help your family avoid probate and keep things more organized, private, and efficient.
Learn more
How we work
You will work directly with your attorney.
You will work directly with Ralph to create a plan that reflects your situation. He will walk you through each decision and make sure everything is clear and complete.
FAQ
Questions we hear about health care proxy.
- Someone who knows your values, can stay calm in a hospital setting, and is reachable in an emergency. Most people name a spouse or an adult child, with a backup in case the first choice is unavailable.
- If you cannot speak for yourself and have not named an agent, your family may need to go to the Massachusetts probate court to get decision-making authority. That takes weeks and costs money at the worst possible time.
Who should I name as my health care agent?
What happens without a health care proxy?
Start with a clear plan
A short conversation can help you understand what you need and what you do not.