
Forms
- Proxy Directive (Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care) [pdf 15k]
- Instructive Directive (Living Will) [pdf 28k]
Developed by the New Jersey Commission on Legal and Ethical Problems in the Delivery of Health Care
Developed by the New Jersey Commission on Legal and Ethical Problems in the Delivery of Health Care
Do I need a lawyer to complete an advance directive?
Answer: No, you can complete an advance directive on your own.
Does my advance directive have to be notarized?
Answer: No.
Do I need a witness when I sign my advance directive?
Answer: You can choose to get your advance directive notarized, in which case you don't need additional witnesses. Or you can choose to sign and date your advance directive in front of two adult witnesses who must also sign and date the document.
What does it mean for someone to sign my advance directive as a witness?
Answer: As a witness the person is stating that you voluntarily signed your advance directive.
Is there anyone who cannot sign my advance directive as a witness?
Answer: Yes, the person who you appoint as your healthcare representative cannot be a witness.
Can I change my advance directive?
Answer: Yes, you can change your advance directive any time you want by completing a new one. You need to sign and date your new advance directive and have two witnesses sign and date it.
Can I cancel my advance directive?
Answer: Yes, you can cancel your advance directive any time you want. To cancel it you need to tell your physician, family, healthcare representative, nurse, social worker or a reliable witness that you want to cancel your advance directive. You can tell them verbally or send them a letter.