Marshfield Health Care Proxy Lawyer
Marshfield Health Care Proxy Attorney
Realizing that someone else may need to speak for you in a medical emergency is not an easy thought. Whether you live near Brant Rock or closer to Marshfield Center, planning allows you to retain control over critical health care decisions. As a Marshfield health care proxy lawyer, Albanese Law, LLC, helps people put clear legal authority in place so their wishes are respected when they cannot speak for themselves.
What Is a Health Care Proxy in Massachusetts?
A health care proxy is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. Research published in 2025 found that only about 15% of adults had documented advance care planning discussions, highlighting a major gap in planning.
Under Massachusetts law, a health care proxy becomes effective only when a physician determines you lack capacity. Choosing the right agent is critical.
Two commonly used documents include:
- A health care proxy, which appoints a decision-maker
- A living will, which expresses treatment preferences
A Marshfield health care proxy attorney can help you decide how these documents work together properly.
Why a Health Care Proxy Is Essential
Many people assume family members will automatically be allowed to make medical decisions, but that is not always the case. A national survey published in July 2025 found that only 5% of Americans have an advanced care plan, and nearly half are unfamiliar with the concept altogether. Without proper documentation, decisions may be delayed or require court involvement.
A health care proxy typically takes effect when:
- A physician determines incapacity
- Incapacity is temporary or permanent
- The appointed agent is available
Common Health Care Proxy Mistakes to Avoid
According to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2024, nearly 27.5% of Medicare appeals were decided in favor of the appellant, showing how common it is that health care decisions and coverage determinations are challenged. Health care proxies are powerful tools, but mistakes can undermine their effectiveness. Clear planning can reduce confusion and conflict.
Common issues families encounter include:
- Naming an agent without discussing expectations
- Failing to update proxies after major life changes
- Assuming old documents still reflect current wishes
An experienced Marshfield health care proxy attorney often sees issues when documents are valid, current, and enforceable.
Why You Should Hire a Health Care Proxy Lawyer
Health care proxy decisions involve deeply personal choices. A Marshfield health care proxy lawyer ensures your wishes are documented clearly and followed under Massachusetts law.
Attorney Matthew P. Albanese is a Super Lawyers honoree and active member of several Massachusetts bar associations. His experience strengthens our firm’s ability to guide clients through critical planning decisions.
Contact Albanese Law, LLC, Today
Individuals and families in Marshfield and throughout Plymouth County rely on Albanese Law, LLC, for thoughtful health care and estate planning guidance. We understand how important it is to have your wishes respected during medical emergencies. If you are ready to hire a Marshfield health care proxy lawyer, contact us to schedule your free consultation.
