Virginia § 54.1-2988.1 - Assistance with completing and executing advance directives
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 54.1-2988.1 — Assistance with completing and executing advance directives, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54.1-2988.1. Assistance with completing and executing advance directives
A. The distribution of written advance directives in a form meeting the requirements of § 54.1-2984 and the provision of technical advice, consultation, and assistance to persons with regard to the completion and execution of such forms by (i) health care providers, including their authorized agents or employees, or (ii) qualified advance directive facilitators shall not constitute the unauthorized practice of law pursuant to Chapter 39 (§ 54.1-3900 et seq.).
B. The provision of ministerial assistance to a person with regard to the completion or execution of a written advance directive in a form meeting the requirements of § 54.1-2984 shall not constitute the unauthorized practice of law pursuant to Chapter 39 (§ 54.1-3900 et seq.). For the purpose of this subsection, "ministerial assistance" includes reading the form of an advance directive meeting the requirements of § 54.1-2984 to a person, discussing the person's preferences with regard to items included in the form, recording the person's answers on the form, and helping the person sign the form and obtain any other necessary signatures on the form. "Ministerial assistance" does not include the expressing of an opinion regarding the legal effects of any item contained in the form of an advance directive meeting the requirements of § 54.1-2984 or the offering of legal advice to a person completing or executing such form.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 54.1-2988.1
What does Code of Virginia § 54.1-2988.1 cover?
Section 54.1-2988.1 ("Assistance with completing and executing advance directives") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. 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 Virginia § 54.1-2988.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 54.1-2988.1" (Virginia). 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 Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 54.1-2988.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia 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 Virginia.