End of Life Planning with a Terminal Illness

 Posted on March 12, 2025 in Estate Planning

A terminal illness diagnosis is overwhelming, not just emotionally but also in terms of practical decision-making. While no one wants to think about the end of their own life, having a solid estate plan in place can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Proper planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, your medical preferences are honored, and your family is spared from unnecessary stress. At Colbert Law Group PLLC, our Texas estate planning lawyer helps our clients plan for these sensitive times with a compassionate and forthright approach.

Estate Planning for End-of-Life Considerations

One of the most crucial aspects of end-of-life planning is ensuring that your financial affairs are in order. This includes having essential legal documents in place to clarify your wishes and protect your loved ones from unnecessary legal hurdles.

Wills and Trusts

A last will and testament dictates how your assets will be distributed after your passing. If you do not have a will, Texas intestacy laws will determine how your estate is divided, which may not align with your wishes.

For more control over asset distribution and to potentially avoid probate, many people opt for a revocable living trust. Trusts allow for seamless transitions of assets to beneficiaries and can provide protections for minors or individuals with special needs.

Power of Attorney

A financial power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted individual to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. This can include paying bills, managing investments, and handling legal matters on your behalf.

Advanced Directives for Medical Care

Medical decisions are among the most critical aspects of end-of-life planning. Without clear instructions, family members may struggle to determine what medical care you would want. Texas law allows you to document your healthcare preferences in legally binding documents.

Living Will (Directive to Physicians)

A living will, also known as a Directive to Physicians, outlines your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments. This ensures that your wishes regarding artificial ventilation, resuscitation, and other interventions are followed if you are unable to communicate them yourself.

Medical Power of Attorney

A medical power of attorney designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Choosing a trusted individual ensures that someone who understands your values and wishes is making decisions about your care.

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) and Out-of-Hospital DNR

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is a physician-signed document that instructs medical personnel not to perform CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing. An Out-of-Hospital DNR applies to situations outside of a hospital, such as in a hospice or home setting.

Additional Considerations

Everyone handles their end-of-life preferences differently, and what works for one person may not be what works for you. That being said, here are some other things people think about when planning for their passing: 

• Funeral and Burial Arrangements: Pre-planning funeral services can relieve your family of difficult decisions during an emotional time.

• Letter of Instruction: This non-legal document provides guidance to loved ones regarding final wishes, account information, and important contacts.

• Digital Asset Planning: This ensures that online accounts, passwords, and digital assets are managed according to your wishes.

Contact a Flower Mound, TX Estate Planning Lawyer

End-of-life planning is about making things easier for your loved ones while ensuring your wishes are carried out. The compassionate and knowledgeable Denton County, TX estate planning attorney at Colbert Law Group PLLC can help you put the right legal documents in place. Contact Colbert Law Group PLLC at 972-724-3338 to schedule a consultation and take control of your future today.