Northglenn, CO estate planning & probate attorney Kayla Seale addresses who should have a living will in Colorado and why. She points out that what is commonly referred to as a “living will” is formally called an advance directive for medical and surgical treatment. While the colloquial term is simpler but less descriptive, the formal name is accurate but lengthy. This document allows an individual to decide in advance how long they wish to remain on life support if at least two doctors determine there is no realistic chance of recovery and life is being sustained solely by medical intervention.

She notes that this is an incredibly difficult decision to make, but the living will ensures that the individual—not their loved ones—makes it. Without such a directive, family members may be forced to make the decision, which can lead to conflict, stress, and strained relationships if opinions differ. By setting up a living will, people can relieve their loved ones of that emotional burden, ensure their wishes are clearly followed, and prevent disagreements during an already painful time.

She emphasizes that this is why she typically recommends everyone have a living will—it lifts a heavy weight from loved ones and guarantees that medical decisions reflect the individual’s own wishes rather than placing that responsibility on family members.