Will healthcare directives from one state be honored in another?
Will the will, durable power of attorney, and living will that I had prepared in Michigan be any good in the state of Florida?
Expert Answer
Florida is in many ways a friendly state -- and its law controlling advance directives is an all-inclusive and welcoming one. It specifically provides: "An advance directive executed in another state in compliance with the law of that state or of this state is validly executed for the purposes of this chapter." That's legalese for: "If it was good over there, it's good over here, too."
Another reality about health care directives, whatever state or state of mind you're in, is that it's a wise idea to review them every year or so to make sure they reflect your current wishes, which may change due to whims or medical advances.
If you opt to move to The Sunshine State for good, you may consider doing your revised directives in strict accord with Florida's form and format.
And if the move is permanent, it's also a good idea to take a stern eye to your will, which quite likely addresses Michigan property you've left behind.