Advanced Directives
A Durable Power Of Attorney
The durable power of attorney is a legal document that grants one person (the agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to act on behalf of another person in legal or financial matters during their lifetime.
Health Care Surrogate
A health care surrogate is a person appointed to make medical decisions on behalf of another individual, typically when that individual is unable to do so themselves. In Florida, parents or legal guardians can designate a health care surrogate for a minor through a legal document. This surrogate is given the authority to make health care decisions for the minor if the parents or guardians are unavailable. The designation includes the surrogate's name, contact information, and any specific instructions or limitations regarding the minor's health care preferences.
Living Will
A living will is a legal document that outlines a person's preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their decisions due to incapacity or illness. It typically specifies the types of medical care and life-sustaining treatments the individual wishes to receive or avoid, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, or tube feeding. The purpose of a living will is to ensure that a person's healthcare preferences are respected and followed by medical professionals and family members.
Preneed Guardianship for Minors & Adults
Preneed guardianship in Florida allows individuals to designate a guardian for themselves or their minor children in advance, should the need arise in the future. This can be established through a parent's Last Will and Testament or other written documents.
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For Minors
Florida Statute 744.3046 provides the authority for appointing a preneed guardian. This allows parents to specify who should take care of their children if they become unable to do so themselves.
For Adults
A preneed guardian can be designated to manage the affairs of an individual if they become incapacitated. This is typically done through legal documents prepared in advance, ensuring that the individual's preferences are respected.