Magazine Archive
Introduction to the Role of Mental Health Specialists in the End of Life Option Act
Mental health professionals play a prominent role in the End of Life Option Act, as only a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist can provide the specialized assessment to determine the decision-making capacity of an individual requesting to obtain aid-in-dying drugs.
Read ArticleReview of the Current “Right to Die” Statue: Are the Protections Against Undue Influence Sufficient?
On October 5, 2015, Governor Jerry Brown signed the “End of Life Option Act,” also known as ABX2-15, which provides terminally-ill patients with an estimated six months or less to live the option to self-administer prescribed life-ending drugs. Prior to its passing, high-profile cases, such as the case involving 29-year old terminally-ill patient, Brittany Maynard,...
Read ArticleCalifornia’s “End of Life Option Act” and Family Dilemmas
Planning for actual death seems to be almost unthinkable, and the majority of us avoid this subject altogether, and in some cultures, it is not even prepared for because that would be considered disrespectful and not honorable. This article will examine the client and family perspectives and how there can be conflicts because of the...
Read ArticleDikē: Murder Will Out
The grim-faced court reporter in Department 47 read back selected testimony to Judge Raymond Carlton as he stiffened in his chair and carefully reviewed his trial notes in preparation for the jury instruction conference with counsel before final argument. Judge Carlton double-checked his notes against the reporter’s real time transcript to help resolve some contested...
Read ArticleDoes an Assisted Suicide Provision Belong in an Estate Plan?
The End of Life Option Act, California Health & Safety Code sections 443 et seq. (“EOLA”) sets forth extremely rigorous standards for a person to elect assisted suicide. EOLA appropriately requires multiple communications from the individual himself as well as his physicians. No one can make the election on behalf of anyone else. These safeguards...
Read ArticleHospice East Bay
Hospice East Bay is a pioneer hospice established in 1977 by community volunteers to create support for patients who wanted to die at home. In the 40 years since then, Hospice East Bay has been privileged to serve more than 25,000 patients and their families. Their mission is to care for patients through the end...
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