I shouldnβt have to say this, butβ do not sign anything which has important points added in goddamn pencil.
Donβt sign forms with areas left blank. Make sure those areas have βnot applicableβ written in each one (or words which work where you are).
Be aware of ambush tactics like being asked to sign unrelated forms * after * a surgery, any painful therapy, while feverish β any time when youβre unable to read and think clearly.
Donβt believe βthis form is no big deal, you donβt have to read it.β
If youβre pressured βbecause itβs more efficient to sign everything at onceβ or anything like that, remember this is one more reason to be cautious, if not suspicious. Tell them to make a separate appointment.
If you are in pain, alone, or concerned for yourself and your ability to refuse to sign papers under pressure, ask someone to be there with you.
If you donβt have people to help in person, get someone to witness things with your phone, and allow them to say βwait a minute, thatβs not rightβ or βnoβ for you. You donβt even need a smart phone to do this, OK? Iβve had to use a land line on speaker. It helps if your person has a clue whatβs going on, but if youβre ambushed, just make sure they are willing to stick up for you. There are probably notes on how to be an advocate somewhere, if you know resources please add them in comments or add to this post.












