Living Will in Arkansas
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Arkansas recognizes living wills; documents require two witnesses and your signature.
How Arkansas treats Living Will
Arkansas law (Ark. Code Ann. § 20-17-401 et seq.) allows you to execute a living will with your signature and two witnesses present. At least one witness must be someone with no family or financial interest in your medical decisions or estate. Your living will takes effect only when your physician determines you lack capacity and are in a terminal condition or permanent unconscious state. Arkansas also permits you to appoint a healthcare proxy to make decisions consistent with your stated wishes.
The general definition of Living Will
A document stating your wishes about life-sustaining medical treatment if you become unable to communicate.
A living will (also called an advance directive) is a written statement of your medical preferences if you're ever in a coma, terminal illness, or unable to speak for yourself. You can specify whether you want life support, feeding tubes, or resuscitation. Doctors and family members use it to make decisions that honor your values when you cannot.
Read the full Living Will entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.