Written by Benjamin Kingsley
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.
To make a healthcare power of attorney in North Carolina, follow these steps:
In North Carolina, a healthcare power of attorney or medical power of attorney is called a “health care power of attorney.” It allows you to appoint someone (called an “agent”) to make health care decisions for you if you become incapacitated and unable to make those decisions yourself. The relevant law is the North Carolina Statutory Health Care Power of Attorney, found in Chapter 32A of the North Carolina General Statutes.
To create a valid healthcare power of attorney in North Carolina, the document must be in writing, signed by you (the “principal”), and either notarized or witnessed by two qualified adults. The witnesses cannot be the person you appoint as your agent, your spouse, blood relatives, or anyone who would inherit from you if you died without a will.
In the document, you should clearly identify the person you are appointing as your agent and any successor agents in case your first choice is unable or unwilling to serve. You can give your agent broad authority to make all health care decisions for you, or you can limit their authority to specific situations or decisions. It’s a good idea to discuss your wishes with your agent so they understand your values and preferences regarding medical treatment.
You can revoke or amend your healthcare power of attorney at any time as long as you are mentally competent. It’s recommended to review the document periodically and make updates as needed to ensure it still reflects your wishes.
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.