Understanding a Health Care Proxy and Why It’s Vital for Your Future

Prepare for Unpredictable Events
An accident or medical emergency can happen at any time. Planning ahead ensures peace of mind—for you and your loved ones.

Comply With Legal Requirements
Hospitals and doctors often require a legal, written document to acknowledge someone as your health care decision-maker. A properly executed health care proxy ensures clarity for all parties involved.

Steps for Choosing the Right Health Care Proxy
When selecting a health care proxy, the decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. You’re choosing someone to advocate for you and uphold your deeply personal health care preferences. Follow these steps to select a proxy who aligns with your needs and values.

1. Choose Someone You Trust Completely
Your health care proxy should be someone you trust wholeheartedly to make decisions in your best interest. This could be a spouse, family member, or close friend.

2. Look for Good Communication Skills
A proxy must be comfortable discussing medical options with physicians and providing clear instructions based on your preferences.

3. Consider Who Understands Your Values
Your agent should share or fully respect your health care values and beliefs, from your stance on life-sustaining treatment to your preferences for palliative care.

4. Ensure Availability
Choose someone who is readily available geographically and emotionally to handle emergencies, as decision-making might need to happen quickly amid unexpected events.

5. Name a Backup Proxy
It’s wise to name an alternate proxy in the event your primary choice is unavailable or unwilling to serve at the critical moment.

How Hynes & Chu Can Help Secure Your Health Care Proxy
Navigating the intricacies of designating a health care proxy can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal guidance, it doesn’t have to be. That’s why Thomas Hynes & Douglas Chu have spent over 35 years assisting individuals and families across Mineola, Brooklyn, and Manhattan in creating customized legal solutions that reflect their unique wishes.

Here’s how Hynes & Chu can make the process smooth and worry-free for you:
Expert Legal Counsel
Hynes & Chu carefully guide you through the process of selecting a proxy, ensuring the document is legally binding and meets New York State requirements.

Personalized Attention
Every family is different, and Hynes & Chu take the time to understand your personal values, priorities, and medical preferences before formalizing your proxy.

Convenience Across NYC
Operating from three offices — in Mineola, Brooklyn, and Manhattan — Hynes & Chu are always accessible to meet your needs.

Trusted Experience
Known for their professionalism and reliability, Hynes & Chu are trusted by countless families, providing peace of mind when it’s needed most.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Care Proxies
Can I update my health care proxy later?
Absolutely. Life circumstances change, and so can your proxy designation. Hynes & Chu ensure that making updates is quick and hassle-free.

What if I don’t have a health care proxy?
Without a health care proxy, medical decisions may be made by doctors or next of kin, which may not align with your wishes.

Is this only for elderly individuals?
Not at all! Emergencies can happen to anyone at any age. Having a health care proxy is important for all adults.

How do I get started with Hynes & Chu?
It’s easy—schedule a consultation with their team at one of their NYC locations to begin drafting your health care proxy today.

Take Charge of Your Future
Putting a health care proxy in place is one of the most responsible decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. It’s about ensuring your voice is heard, even when you can’t speak—and having someone you trust to advocate for you when it matters most.
With over three decades of trusted legal advice, Thomas Hynes & Douglas Chu stand ready to help you craft a health care proxy that secures your wishes and gives you peace of mind.

To put your plan in place, contact Hynes & Chu today—whether you're in Mineola, Brooklyn, or Manhattan. Together, we’ll make sure your future is in the right hands.

Take the first step in securing your family’s peace of mind. Schedule a consultation today.