Living Will in Colorado
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Colorado requires two witnesses or notarization; living wills take effect only when you lack decision-making capacity.
How Colorado treats Living Will
Colorado recognizes living wills under its Uniform Health-Care Decisions Act. Your document must be signed by you and either witnessed by two people or notarized. The living will becomes operative only when you are unable to communicate your wishes, and your healthcare provider must document this incapacity in your medical record before following your instructions.
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 Colorado.