Living Will in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Massachusetts calls living wills "healthcare proxies" and requires two witnesses, neither of whom can be your healthcare provider.
How Massachusetts treats Living Will
Massachusetts does not recognize traditional living wills; instead, you appoint a healthcare proxy (agent) to make medical decisions on your behalf. You must sign the healthcare proxy form in front of two witnesses who are not your healthcare provider, not related to you by blood or marriage, and not entitled to your estate. The proxy takes effect immediately upon your incapacity and can make any healthcare decision you could make, including decisions about life-sustaining treatment.
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 Massachusetts.