A California medical power of attorney form is a legal document that allows someone else to make medical decisions on your behalf. This form becomes effective on a specific date or event mentioned in the document. Typically, it takes effect when you’re unable to make medical decisions for yourself, ensuring that your healthcare preferences are respected even when you can’t communicate them. In California, this document is also referred to as an advance healthcare directive.
Laws
Statute: California Probate Code § 4670-4743.
Signing Requirements: Two (2) Witnesses or Notary Public (§ 4701). If you are a patient in a skilled nursing facility, you also need the signature of a patient advocate or ombudsman.
Revocation: It remains in effect unless you revoke it. You must be able to revoke all or part of a health care directive, except for the designated agent, at any time and in any manner of communication (§ 4695 to §4698).
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