Advance Funeral Wishes Directive

While living wills and advance medical directives have become popular considerations for those planning for end-of-life care, a frequently-overlooked tool is the Advance Funeral Wishes Directive.

What does an Advance Funeral Wishes Directive do? Isn’t that information covered by a will? Although that’s what many people think, the reality is that a will is often not administered until well after your death, after your funeral and burial have already been completed.

The solution to this conundrum is to prepare an Advance Funeral Wishes Directive, a document that details your wishes. Do you want to be buried or cremated? Would you like to donate your body to an institution? Would you like to donate your organs? Which ones? Do you have a prepaid funeral contract? All of these details should be included. You can also select the songs, poems, or scripture you want featured at your funeral, as well as the individuals who should read or perform them. Any detail of your funeral or burial can be detailed.

Your Advance Funeral Wishes Directive can be drafted by your attorney in conjunction with your Last Will and Testament. Like your will, your Advance Funeral Wishes Directive should be signed by witnesses. Also, you should be sure to give a copy to whoever will be responsible for making the funeral arrangements after your death. Drafting your Advance Funeral Wishes Directive and making sure your loved ones have a copy is the best way to make sure that the final impression you leave on Earth is exactly as you want it. The wills and trusts attorneys at McNeelyLaw are ready to help you with all your end-of-life planning needs.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.