Life Sustaining Statute, Alaska
A Life Sustaining Statute or a uniform living will is a legal document written by someone who is diagnosed with an illness that may be difficult to cure or has a chance to become a terminal illness. A life sustaining statute or uniform living will states the wishes of the person who is ill. It states what they would want to happen in the case that their illness does become terminal or that they pass the point of no return. This document states the types of medications he will be restricted to and from. It also states that if the person decided to prolong or shorten his or her life, that he or she did it willingly, of sound mind, has been informed of possible treatments and procedures, and understands all legal implications of his or her decisions. The document is generally written (this may vary among states) with the writer’s signature, City of residence, County of residence, State of residence, Social Security Number, the Date it was signed, and the names of the witnesses present during this event. It is then presented to a notary public for notarization and publishing. Finally, you are encouraged to keep multiple copies. Make sure that theses can be accessible with your doctor, lawyer, and family members.
A life sustaining statute is generally legal in most states and will generally be enforce and made in the presence of witnesses and a notary public. There is a general format when it come to life sustaining statutes but the details may differ depending on the state you are in. In the state of Alaska, it is a general legal form.
Life Sustaining Statute, Alaska
Declaration as Provided by Alaska Statutes, Section 18.12.010: Life Sustaining Declaration
DECLARATION of ______________
If I should have an incurable or irreversible condition that will cause my death within a relatively short time, it is my desire that my life not be prolonged by administration of life- sustaining procedures.
If my condition is terminal and I am unable to participate in decisions regarding my medical treatment, I direct my attending physician to withhold or withdraw procedures that merely prolong the dying process and are not necessary to my comfort or to alleviate pain.
I do [] do not [] desire that nutrition or hydration (food and water) be provided by gastric tube or intravenously if necessary.
Signed this______ day of _____________________, 20____.
Signature:
________________________________________________________________
Place of signing: _____________________
The Declarant is known to me and voluntarily signed or voluntarily directed another to sign this document in my presence.Witness:
________________________________________________________________
SignatureAddress:
________________________________________________________________
SignatureAddress:
State of _________________________
__________________________________ Judicial DistrictThe foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this ______ day of _____________________, 20____ by ___________________.
_________________________________________
Signature of person taking acknowledgmentDeclaration as Provided by Alaska Statutes, Section 18.12.010: Life Sustaining Declaration
Review ListThis review list is provided to inform you about this document in question and assist you in its preparation. This simple Life Sustaining Declaration is valid in Alaska. Check with a local hospital or doctor’s office, as well as with an experienced medical attorney, to assure yourself of its compliance with current statute (s) in your state.
1. Make multiple copies. Give one to your doctor (s), the local hospital, and have others available through your attorney and family. Remember, these kinds of documents are needed in emergency situations at worst and under stressful circumstances at best. So be sure they are available to the appropriate people easily, when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a life sustaining declaration in Alaska?
A life sustaining declaration is a legal document provided by Alaska Statutes, Section 18.12.010. It allows you to state that if you have an incurable or irreversible condition that will cause your death within a relatively short time, you do not want your life prolonged by life-sustaining procedures. It also lets you direct your attending physician to withhold or withdraw procedures that merely prolong the dying process and are not necessary for your comfort or to alleviate pain.
How do I make a life sustaining declaration in Alaska?
To make a life sustaining declaration in Alaska, you must complete the form provided by Alaska Statutes, Section 18.12.010. The form requires you to declare your wishes, indicate whether you want nutrition or hydration provided by gastric tube or intravenously, sign and date the document, and have it witnessed. The witness must know you and attest that you voluntarily signed or directed another to sign in their presence.
Do I need a witness for an Alaska life sustaining declaration?
Yes, the Alaska life sustaining declaration form includes a section for a witness. The witness must sign and provide their address, and they attest that the declarant is known to them and voluntarily signed or voluntarily directed another to sign the document in their presence. This witnessing requirement helps ensure the document is valid.
What is the difference between a living will and a life sustaining declaration in Alaska?
In Alaska, the term "life sustaining declaration" is used in the statute, but it functions similarly to what is commonly called a living will. It is a document that expresses your wishes regarding life-sustaining procedures if you have a terminal condition and cannot participate in decisions. The Alaska statute specifically refers to it as a life sustaining declaration.
Can I specify whether I want food and water in an Alaska life sustaining declaration?
Yes, the Alaska life sustaining declaration form includes an option to indicate whether you desire that nutrition or hydration (food and water) be provided by gastric tube or intravenously if necessary. You can check the box to indicate your preference. This allows you to make specific choices about these measures.
When does a life sustaining declaration take effect in Alaska?
According to the Alaska life sustaining declaration form, it takes effect if you have an incurable or irreversible condition that will cause your death within a relatively short time. It also applies if your condition is terminal and you are unable to participate in decisions regarding your medical treatment. At that point, your attending physician is directed to follow your wishes as stated in the declaration.
What happens if I don't have a life sustaining declaration in Alaska?
If you do not have a life sustaining declaration, your wishes regarding life-sustaining procedures may not be known or followed if you become unable to communicate. The declaration allows you to direct your attending physician to withhold or withdraw procedures that merely prolong the dying process. Without it, decisions may be left to others, potentially leading to unwanted interventions.
Is an Alaska life sustaining declaration legally binding?
Yes, the life sustaining declaration is provided by Alaska Statutes, Section 18.12.010, which gives it legal standing. When properly completed and witnessed, it directs your attending physician to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining procedures under the conditions specified. This makes it a legally binding document in Alaska.
Can I revoke an Alaska life sustaining declaration?
The provided article text does not specify revocation procedures for an Alaska life sustaining declaration. However, as a legal document, it can typically be revoked or amended by the declarant. For specific guidance, you should consult Alaska law or a legal professional.
What should I do with my completed Alaska life sustaining declaration?
After completing and witnessing your Alaska life sustaining declaration, you should keep the original in a safe place and provide copies to your attending physician, family members, and other relevant parties. This ensures that your wishes are known and can be followed when needed. It is also advisable to review and update the document periodically.
