Define: Directive

Directive
Directive
Quick Summary of Directive

A directive, also referred to as a medical directive, physician’s directive, or written directive, is a legal document that outlines an individual’s desired medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate or make decisions on their own. It appoints a surrogate decision-maker for healthcare matters and is only enforceable once it has been determined that the person lacks capacity. The designated agent must make decisions based on the person’s specific instructions, if provided, or in their best interests.

Full Definition Of Directive

A directive is a legal document that outlines a person’s wishes for medical treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate or make decisions. It can also refer to a document that appoints someone to make healthcare decisions on their behalf. An advance directive is a legal document that designates a person to make healthcare decisions for an individual who becomes incapacitated. A medical directive is a written document that outlines a person’s wishes for medical treatment if they are unable to communicate or make decisions. A do-not-resuscitate order is a directive that instructs healthcare providers not to perform CPR if the person’s heart stops or they stop breathing. These examples demonstrate how a directive can ensure that a person’s medical treatment preferences are honoured, even if they cannot express or decide for themselves.

Directive FAQ'S

A directive is a legal instrument issued by a governing body, such as a government or regulatory agency, that provides instructions or guidelines on how to interpret and implement a particular law or policy.

Yes, directives are legally binding on the member states of the governing body that issued them. Member states are required to transpose the directive into their national laws and ensure compliance.

Yes, directives can be challenged in court if they are not properly transposed into national laws or if they are not being implemented correctly. Individuals or organisations affected by a directive can seek legal remedies to ensure compliance.

The time frame for transposing a directive into national law varies and is usually specified within the directive itself. Member states are generally given a reasonable period, often a few years, to implement the directive.

Yes, directives can be amended or repealed by the governing body that issued them. This can occur if there is a need to update the directive, address any shortcomings, or if the governing body decides to change its policy or approach.

If a member state fails to transpose a directive into national law within the specified time frame, it can face legal consequences. This may include infringement proceedings initiated by the governing body, which can result in financial penalties or other sanctions.

Yes, directives can be challenged on the grounds of compatibility with national laws. If a directive conflicts with existing national laws, member states may seek clarification or challenge the directive’s validity through legal proceedings.

Directives are primarily enforced against member states, as they are responsible for transposing and implementing them into national laws. However, individuals can indirectly be affected by directives if they are subject to national laws that result from the transposition of a directive.

No, directives are typically issued by governing bodies with legislative or regulatory authority, such as governments, the European Union, or other international organisations. Non-governmental organisations may issue guidelines or recommendations, but these do not have the same legal binding effect as directives.

Yes, directives can be challenged based on human rights or constitutional grounds if they infringe upon fundamental rights or constitutional principles. Courts may review the compatibility of a directive with higher legal norms and may invalidate or interpret the directive accordingly.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/directive/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Directive. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/directive/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Directive. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/directive/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Directive. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/directive/
Avatar of DLS Solicitors
DLS Solicitors : Divorce Solicitors

Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.

All author posts