Health Care Directives in New Jersey

Make Your Medical Wishes Clear-Before a Crisis Hits

A Health Care Directive gives someone you trust the power to make medical decisions on your behalf if you can't speak for yourself. It also spells out your preferences about treatments, life support, and end-of-life care-so your loved ones never have to guess.



 At Elias Counsel LLC, we help you create legally binding Health Care Directives that reflect your values, respect your dignity, and comply with New Jersey law. We guide you through the process with compassion, not pressure.


We're based in Monroe Township and work with individuals and families throughout Middlesex County and surrounding Central Jersey towns-including East Brunswick, Jamesburg, Old Bridge, and more.

What to Expect When You Create a Health Care Directive

Here's how we help you take control of your future medical care:

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We Explain Your Options in Plain English

You don't need a medical degree to understand your rights. We break down what a Health Care Directive covers-like resuscitation, life-sustaining treatments, feeding tubes, and palliative care-and help you think through your preferences without overwhelming you.

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You Choose a Trusted Medical Decision-Maker

We'll guide you in selecting a health care proxy-someone who can advocate for your medical choices if you're unconscious or incapacitated. This could be a spouse, family member, or trusted friend. We'll also help you name a backup, just in case.

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We Put It All in Writing-Legally & Clearly

We draft a customized directive that spells out your choices and designates your proxy. You'll walk away with a signed, valid document that hospitals and providers will recognize across New Jersey.

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You Get Peace of Mind (and So Does Your Family)

By making your wishes known now, you spare your loved ones from making painful choices during a medical emergency. You also give your doctors clear guidance so they can honor your preferences without delay or confusion.

What Is a Health Care Directive?

A Health Care Directive (also called an Advance Directive or Living Will) is a legal document that lays out your medical treatment preferences and names someone to speak for you if you're unable to speak for yourself.


In New Jersey, this directive can cover issues like life support, feeding tubes, pain management, and religious or cultural considerations in end-of-life care. It's about more than paperwork-it's about protecting your voice when it matters most.

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Why Every Adult Should Have One

Medical emergencies can happen at any age-from accidents to unexpected illnesses. If you're unconscious or unable to communicate, your doctors and family will have to make quick decisions.



 Without a directive, your loved ones may disagree-or the hospital may follow standard procedures that don't align with your values. A Health Care Directive prevents uncertainty, reduces stress, and ensures you remain in charge of your care, even when you can't speak.

Common Situations Where a Directive Helps

After a stroke or head injury, when a person is unable to respond

During surgery or hospitalization under sedation

For older adults dealing with memory loss or dementia

In any serious medical crisis where time is of the essence

We've helped countless Monroe Township clients draft directives that reflect their wishes-and we're here to do the same for you.

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FAQs About Health Care Directives in NJ

  • Is a Health Care Directive the same as a Living Will?

    They're often used interchangeably in New Jersey. Both refer to a document that outlines your medical wishes and names a proxy to make decisions if needed.

  • Do I need both a Health Care Directive and a Power of Attorney?

    Yes. A Health Care Directive covers medical decisions, while a Power of Attorney covers legal and financial matters.

    Learn more about Power of Attorney

  • Can I change my directive later?

    Absolutely. You can update or revoke your directive at any time as long as you're mentally competent. We can help you revise it as your preferences evolve.

  • Who should I choose as my health care proxy?

    Pick someone who knows your values, is willing to speak up, and can stay calm in emergencies. We'll help you think through the best choice and name an alternate too.

  • Will doctors really follow it?

    Yes-as long as it's properly drafted, signed, and accessible, medical providers in NJ are required to honor it. That's why we take care of the legal details for you.

    Explore more in our Estate Planning overview