Living Will in Maine
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Maine recognizes living wills; two witnesses required, with specific restrictions on who can serve as witnesses.
How Maine treats Living Will
Maine allows living wills under its Health Care Directive law, requiring two adult witnesses who cannot be your healthcare provider, related to you, or employed by your healthcare facility. You may also have the document notarized instead of using witnesses. Maine permits you to name a healthcare agent and specify your wishes about life-sustaining treatment, artificial nutrition, and other medical interventions. The directive becomes effective when you lose decision-making capacity.
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 Maine.