Return to Forensic Home Page || Return to Table of Contents
State Courts usually decide Right to Die; (see
QUINLAN,'76) Most have felt that competent patients have right to refuse treatment and
that a surrogate can decide. MO Supreme Court said there was no Clear & Convincing
(~75%) evidence of this particular patient's wishes, so refused her parent's request made
for her. Supreme Court said RIGHT TO DIE includes even feeding, but MO law was NOT
unconstitutional just because it was tight on 14th right to not be deprived of life
without due process. US Does NOT REQUIRE Clear & Convincing
(~75%); Just Says States CAN Make That Rule.(5-4 decision)
Conclusion:MAKE A LIVING WILL!