There are forms available for this purpose. Some states even have specimen forms that are available free of charge. But, you don’t have to use a form if you don’t want to. You can write out your wishes on a separate piece of paper, or you can get a sample form from the library or from the internet - without having to pay a fee. Most attorneys provide these forms as well and, generally, are included as part of your overall estate planning at no additional charge.
There are some legal requirements, though, that you must comply with in order to create a legally binding document: You must be at least 18 years of age at the time you sign the document. The document must be in writing. It must state your name. It must be signed by you or by someone authorized to sign for you. Your signature must be witnessed by two witnesses and your signature must be notarized by a notary public. It should include the name, address and relationship to you of each person you designate as your agent for health care decisions and, if you designate more than one, whether they will act consecutively or concurrently. If they are to act concurrently, you should also indicate whether they will act jointly or separately. If you wish to make such a pre-designation of a guardian or conservator for future incapacity, it should include the name, address and relationship to you of each person you pre-designate as your guardian or conservator. If you designate more than one person, you should indicate whether they will act consecutively or concurrently. If they are to act concurrently, you should also indicate whether they will act jointly or separately.