Living Wills & Healthcare Directives Attorneys Serving Boise and Meridian, Idaho

Planning for the unexpected isn’t easy—but it’s one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones. A Living Will and Healthcare Directive ensures that your wishes are honored if you become unable to make medical decisions for yourself. At Shep Law Group, we help individuals and families across Boise, Meridian, Ada County, and throughout Idaho create clear, legally binding documents that offer peace of mind and protection in moments of crisis.

Whether you’re facing a serious health diagnosis, planning for the future, or supporting an aging loved one, our team is here to make the process simple, respectful, and fully aligned with your values.

What Is a Living Will?

A Living Will—also known as an Advance Directive—is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical treatment if you are terminally ill, permanently unconscious, or otherwise unable to communicate. It gives your doctors and loved ones clear instructions about the kinds of life-sustaining care you do or do not want.

Your Living Will may address:

– Whether you want to be placed on a ventilator
– If you want artificial nutrition or hydration
– The use of resuscitation (CPR) or defibrillation
– Pain management and comfort care preferences
– Organ donation instructions

Having these decisions clearly documented reduces confusion and emotional stress for your family and ensures your voice is heard when you can’t speak for yourself.

What Is a Healthcare Directive?

In Idaho, a Healthcare Directive is a broader legal tool that combines two key components:

– Living Will: Specifies your medical treatment preferences.
– Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare: Appoints a trusted person (called a “healthcare agent”) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Together, these documents ensure that your wishes are respected and that someone you trust is legally authorized to advocate for you in medical situations.

Why You Need a Healthcare Directive

Medical emergencies can happen to anyone at any age. Without a healthcare directive, your family may be forced to make difficult decisions without knowing what you would have wanted. Even worse, they may face legal obstacles in accessing information or authorizing treatment.

Creating a Living Will and Healthcare Directive helps:

– Avoid family disputes or uncertainty during medical crises
– Ensure decisions align with your religious or moral beliefs
– Prevent unwanted or invasive medical treatments
– Give legal authority to someone you trust
– Reduce the likelihood of court-appointed guardianship

We’ll walk you through your options and create a customized document that clearly reflects your personal choices.

Choosing a Healthcare Agent

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting your healthcare agent—the person who will speak on your behalf if you cannot. This person should be someone who:

– Knows your values and medical preferences
– Can remain calm and objective under pressure
– Will confidently advocate for your wishes
– Is willing and available to act when needed

You can also name a backup (successor) agent in case your first choice is unavailable. We’ll help you make sure your agent understands their role and has the legal authority to act when needed.

Can You Change a Living Will or Healthcare Directive?

Yes. Your documents should reflect your current health, relationships, and beliefs. You can revise or revoke your Living Will or Healthcare Directive at any time—as long as you are mentally competent. It’s a good idea to review your plan regularly, especially after major life events such as:

– Marriage, divorce, or remarriage
– The birth of a child or grandchild
– A significant health diagnosis
– A change in your medical treatment preferences
– The death or unavailability of your healthcare agent

We’re happy to review your current documents and make any necessary updates.

How These Documents Work With Your Estate Plan

A Living Will and Healthcare Directive are essential parts of a complete estate plan. While your will or trust deals with what happens after death, these documents ensure that your personal autonomy and medical wishes are respected during life.

We’ll help you coordinate your Living Will with your:

– Power of Attorney for finances
– Last Will and Testament
– Revocable Living Trust
– HIPAA release forms (for medical privacy)

This integrated approach provides complete protection—both for your assets and your wellbeing.

Why Choose Shep Law Group

At Shep Law Group, we know these conversations can be difficult. That’s why we take the time to listen, answer your questions with compassion, and help you make informed, empowered decisions. Your comfort, clarity, and control are our top priorities.

Clients choose us because:

– We simplify sensitive legal decisions with care and clarity
– We draft custom documents that reflect your personal values
– We’re responsive, respectful, and experienced
– We coordinate healthcare directives with your full estate plan
– We’re trusted throughout Idaho for thoughtful, effective planning

We’re here to make sure your voice is always heard—no matter what the future holds.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to create or update your Living Will or Healthcare Directive in Boise, Meridian, or anywhere in Idaho, contact Shep Law Group today. We’ll guide you through every step and provide documents that offer clarity, comfort, and confidence for you and your loved ones.

Take control of your future with a plan that reflects your wishes and values—start today.