The usual requirements are that the document be signed by the individual and by two witnesses. In some states, a notary public is required. Most states have a model text for an advance directive for residents of that state. Our practice is to follow the model text and incorporate other provisions if permitted. By doing so, the advance directive is in a form that will be familiar to a physician or hospital.
Many clients have homes in more than one state.
We recommend that a different advance directive be executed for each state in which an individual spends a substantial amount of time. We recommend executing several originals of an advance directive. At least one original should be stored in a safe place. In that regard, we are happy to place one or more originals of our clients' advance directive in our vault for safekeeping. If at least one original is in a safe place, you can keep another original at home where it will be easily accessible.