Advance directives—including living wills and health care surrogate designations—give you control over critical medical decisions even if you become unable to communicate. In Florida, the law requires these documents to include specific language and to be signed and witnessed according to state statute, which local care providers in Fort Myers will verify before honoring your wishes.

For Fort Myers residents, questions often arise about how their documents will be used at leading local hospitals like Lee Memorial Hospital or Gulf Coast Medical Center. An advance directive attorney helps ensure your paperwork is both accessible and effectively communicates your wishes to healthcare providers. By preparing your advance directives with the help of a lawyer, your family and physicians have confidence that your instructions are reliable and enforceable in Florida, ultimately relieving loved ones of stressful decision-making during emergencies. We also prioritize making your wishes known to your chosen surrogate and suggest strategies for safe document storage that align with the realities of Southwest Florida’s seasonal and mobile population.

We provide a comprehensive approach to advance directive planning:

• In-depth explanations of your options: We review the different types of advance directives permitted under Florida law, including living wills and health care surrogate designations, and explain how each fits your goals.
• Thorough document drafting: Our attorneys ensure every document complies with the requirements of Florida Statute Chapter 765, including the proper witnessing process and clear language outlining your intentions.
• Integration with your estate plan: We make certain your advance directives work smoothly with other documents such as wills and powers of attorney for a comprehensive plan.
• Respect for your values: We honor your preferences regarding medical treatments and support you in selecting a surrogate decision-maker whom you trust implicitly.