Personal Directive in Nova Scotia
In Nova Scotia, a Personal Directive lets you document your medical treatment preferences in advance. If you become unable to communicate, your healthcare providers and family will know your wishes.
Nova Scotia Legal Context
Living Will / Advance Directive Law in Nova Scotia
Understanding the legal framework for your living will in NS.
In Nova Scotia, advance care planning documents are known as a "Personal Directive." This document allows you to specify which medical treatments you do or do not want, and to appoint a person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated.
Requirements
What You Need in Nova Scotia
Key requirements for a valid living will in NS.
- ✓Must be 19 years of age or older (age of majority in NS)
- ✓Must be mentally capable when creating the document
- ✓Known as a "Personal Directive" in Nova Scotia
- ✓Should specify treatment preferences clearly
- ✓Can appoint a substitute decision-maker
- ✓Should be shared with your healthcare providers and family
How It Works
Create Your Living Will in Nova Scotia
A simple, guided process — done in minutes.
State Your Preferences
Document your wishes regarding medical treatment, life support, and palliative care. In Nova Scotia, this is called a Personal Directive.
Appoint a Decision-Maker
Name a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to communicate your wishes.
Share & Store
Download your Personal Directive, share copies with your doctor and family in Nova Scotia, and store it securely in your Digital Vault.
FAQ
Living Will / Advance Directive in Nova Scotia — Common Questions
What is a Personal Directive in Nova Scotia?
A Personal Directive in Nova Scotia is a legal document that allows you to record your healthcare wishes in advance. It can include instructions about life-sustaining treatment, resuscitation, pain management, and other medical decisions.
Is a Personal Directive legally binding in Nova Scotia?
Yes, healthcare providers in Nova Scotia are generally required to follow the instructions in a valid Personal Directive. The document must be created while you are mentally capable and should be as specific as possible about your treatment preferences.
Can I change my Personal Directive later?
Yes, you can update or revoke your Personal Directive at any time in Nova Scotia, as long as you are mentally capable. It is a good idea to review it periodically, especially after major health changes or life events.
Who should I give a copy of my Personal Directive to?
In Nova Scotia, you should provide copies to your family doctor, any specialists you see regularly, the person you have appointed as your substitute decision-maker, close family members, and your local hospital. Keep the original in a safe but accessible place.
What is the difference between a living will and a Personal Directive?
A living will outlines specific treatment preferences, while a Personal Directive appoints someone to make decisions on your behalf. In Nova Scotia, they may be combined into a single "Personal Directive" document or kept separate. Having both ensures comprehensive coverage.
More Services
Other Services in Nova Scotia
Explore our full suite of estate planning tools for Nova Scotia residents.
Will
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Enduring Power of Attorney
Set up a Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive to protect your financial and personal affairs.
Expat Will
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Personal Directive
Document your healthcare wishes in a Personal Directive so your medical preferences are honoured.
Farewell Planning
Plan your memorial or celebration of life in Nova Scotia. Document every detail for your family.
Digital Vault
Securely store your Nova Scotia estate documents, passwords, and digital assets in one encrypted location.
Ready to create your living will in Nova Scotia?
Start now — create your legal documents online with Livewill.