Living Will in District of Columbia
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
DC recognizes living wills and requires two witnesses, at least one unrelated to you, to validate the document.
How District of Columbia treats Living Will
District of Columbia law allows you to execute a living will (also called an advance directive) to specify your wishes about life-sustaining treatment. Your document must be signed by you and witnessed by two people; at least one witness must be unrelated to you by blood or marriage and cannot be your healthcare provider or an employee of your healthcare facility. DC honors both oral and written advance directives, though written documents provide clearer evidence of your intent. The District treats living wills the same as other states generally do, focusing on your autonomous choice about end-of-life care.
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 District of Columbia.