New Jersey estate planning attorney Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/dnr-orders-explained/) of The Matus Law Group provides valuable information on Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and their role in preparing for future healthcare decisions. DNR orders often raise questions for families planning long-term medical care. As a New Jersey estate planning attorney, Christine Matus addresses the legal significance of these directives, emphasizing the need for clear communication and legal documentation when making healthcare choices.
Christine Matus, a New Jersey estate planning attorney and founder of The Matus Law Group, brings attention to the legal rights of mentally competent adults in medical situations. These individuals may choose to accept or refuse medical treatments, including those considered lifesaving. This legal protection, recognized under U.S. law and the American Hospital Association’s Patient Bill of Rights, supports the implementation of DNR orders. According to the article, “Every mentally competent patient has the right to either accept or refuse any medical treatment recommended to them by healthcare providers.” Christine Matus ensures that clients understand how this principle applies to estate planning and medical decision-making.
As a New Jersey estate planning attorney, Christine Matus explains that a DNR order instructs medical professionals not to perform resuscitation efforts, such as CPR, defibrillation, or the use of medications to restart heart function. These orders are especially important for individuals with terminal illnesses or those who prefer to avoid aggressive medical interventions. DNR directives often accompany other planning tools, such as Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST), which outline additional treatment preferences, including intubation and dialysis. Christine Matus advises clients to include DNR directives in estate plans and to discuss intentions with family members and healthcare providers to prevent confusion during emergencies.
Christine Matus has served the New Jersey community since 1995, focusing on estate planning and special needs law. A graduate of Douglass College and Touro College Law Center, Christine Matus leads The Matus Law Group in helping families understand legal options for healthcare planning. The article states, “The Matus Law Group can provide clarity on DNR orders and their implications in New Jersey.” Christine Matus works to ensure that clients create legally sound advance care directives that reflect personal medical values and comply with state regulations.
In New Jersey, obtaining a DNR order involves a formal process. A conversation must occur between the attending physician or advanced practice nurse and the individual, or with a surrogate decision-maker if the individual lacks capacity. This surrogate may include a legal guardian, healthcare proxy, or closest relative. The physician must confirm that the individual understands the medical condition, the implications of refusing resuscitation, and any alternatives. Christine Matus emphasizes the importance of documenting these decisions accurately within the estate planning process.
Proper documentation includes the individual’s diagnosis, prognosis, and details from the conversation about the DNR order. A legally recognized DNR order may be issued both inside and outside healthcare facilities in New Jersey. Healthcare agents or court-appointed guardians may authorize these orders under specific circumstances. Christine Matus helps families understand these requirements and ensures that all legal documents meet state standards.
DNR orders can be changed or revoked at any time. A revocation must be communicated to the attending physician, who is then responsible for removing the DNR from the medical record. Any physical indicators of the DNR—such as identification cards or medical alert bracelets—should be destroyed to avoid confusion. Family members and caregivers should also be notified of the change. Christine Matus ensures that clients understand the revocation process and how it affects other estate planning documents.
Although related, DNR orders are not the same as Advance Healthcare Directives. A DNR order is a specific instruction to withhold resuscitation, while Advance Directives may include broader healthcare preferences. Christine Matus recommends preparing both types of documents to ensure that medical treatment preferences are clear and enforceable. Including these directives in an estate plan provides peace of mind and supports better communication among family members and healthcare teams.
Christine Matus continues to be active in the New Jersey legal and community landscape. In addition to leading The Matus Law Group, Christine Matus has served on various boards, including the Ocean County Bar Association, 21 Plus, and the Ocean County YMCA. Through public speaking, publishing, and volunteering, Christine Matus demonstrates a commitment to helping families understand legal options and prepare for the future with confidence.
Planning for medical emergencies requires informed decisions and reliable legal support. Christine Matus and The Matus Law Group offer assistance with creating legally valid DNR orders, healthcare proxies, and other advance directives that protect individual healthcare preferences. Early preparation ensures that wishes are respected and that loved ones are spared from making difficult decisions during times of crisis.
About The Matus Law Group:
The Matus Law Group is a New Jersey-based law firm focusing on estate planning, elder law, and special needs planning. Founded by Christine Matus, the firm is dedicated to helping families navigate complex legal decisions with clarity and care. The Matus Law Group provides tailored legal services that support each client’s goals for long-term planning and peace of mind.
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