Advance Health Care Directives

Take control of your medical care—before someone else has to.

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Plan Ahead With Confidence: Why Advance Health Care Directives Matter

An advance health care directive ensures that your medical preferences are honored if you're ever unable to communicate them. It gives your loved ones clarity and your doctors legal guidance—at the moments that matter most.


At Wade Law Offices, we help clients in California and Washington express their wishes clearly, legally, and compassionately. Whether you're preparing for the unexpected or planning ahead as part of a larger estate strategy, an advance directive gives you peace of mind today and protection for tomorrow.


With a properly executed directive, you can:

  • Specify the type of care you do or do not want
  • Appoint a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf
  • Clarify your end-of-life preferences
  • Reduce emotional burden on your family
  • Avoid potential legal or ethical conflicts in healthcare settings

How We Can Help

We ensure your directive is clear, legally compliant, and truly reflects your values and preferences.

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Health Care Instructions

Outline your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment, pain management, and more—so you remain in control, even when you can’t speak for yourself.

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Medical Power of Attorney

Name a trusted agent who will speak and act on your behalf when it comes to health decisions.

HIPAA Authorization

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We make sure your decision-makers can legally access medical records when they need them.

Integration with Estate Plan

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Your directive will work in harmony with your will, trust, and powers of attorne

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State-Specific Compliance

We prepare directives that comply with current laws in California and Washington—so they’ll hold up when needed.

Why Clients Choose Wade Law Offices

Compassionate. Thorough. Knowledgeable. Respectful.


  • We listen to what truly matters to you—and translate it into clear legal guidance
  • Our team understands how emotional and personal these decisions are
  • We help you avoid generic or incomplete forms that may be unenforceable
  • We approach every directive with sensitivity, precision, and care


Want clarity and peace of mind for the future? Let’s put your wishes in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is an advance health care directive?

    It’s a legal document that outlines your medical preferences and names someone to make health care decisions if you’re unable.

  • Is it the same as a living will?

    A living will is one part of an advance directive—usually focused on end-of-life care. We help you create a full directive with broader protections.

  • Who should I name as my health care agent?

    Someone you trust, who understands your values, and who is willing to advocate on your behalf if necessary.

  • Can I update my directive later?

    Yes. You should revisit it regularly, especially after life changes like marriage, illness, or new diagnoses.

  • Do doctors have to follow it?

    In most cases, yes—especially when it’s clear, legal, and up-to-date. That’s why we craft each directive carefully.

  • Should my family have a copy?

    Absolutely. We provide signed copies and guidance on who should have access—including doctors and hospitals.

We’re Ready to Help

Connect with an estate planning attorney in California or Washington today—reach us by phone, email, or our secure online form to get started. Wade Law Offices is here to help you document your wishes and protect your dignity through every stage of life.