Euthanasia is the mercy killing of the hopelessly ill, injured, or incapacitated. Euthanasia is complex, and the legal system must maintain a balance between ensuring that the patient’s constitutional rights are protected while protecting public interests in preserving life, preventing suicide, and maintaining the integrity of the medical profession.

■■ Active euthanasia is the intentional commission of an act that will result in death.

■■ Passive euthanasia involves the withdrawal or withholding of lifesaving treatment.

■■ Voluntary euthanasia occurs when a suffering, incurable patient makes the decision to die.

■■ Involuntary euthanasia occurs when a person other than the incurable person makes the decision to terminate the life of an incurable person.