Pennsylvania § 5457 - Countermand.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5457 — Countermand., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5457. Countermand.
(a) Competent principal.--A principal of sound mind may countermand any health care decision made by the principal's health care agent at any time and in any manner by personally informing the attending physician or health care provider.
(b) Incompetent principal.--Regardless of the principal's mental or physical capacity, a principal may countermand a health care decision made by the principal's health care agent that would withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment at any time and in any manner by personally informing the attending physician.
(c) Attending physician.--The attending physician or health care provider shall make reasonable efforts to promptly inform the health care agent of a countermand under this section.
(d) Health care agent.--A countermand exercised under this section shall not affect the authority of a health care agent to make other health care decisions in accordance with the health care power of attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 5457
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5457 cover?
Section 5457 ("Countermand.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 5457?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 5457" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 5457 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.