What Is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney is a document that designates an individual, referred to as an agent or attorney-in-fact, to handle your personal and financial affairs if you’re unable to do so. When you, as the principal, choose a power of attorney, you’re giving your agent authority to act on your behalf to manage essential functions such as paying bills, managing accounts and investments, and other legal decisions.
Many people grant a power of attorney in situations including, but not limited to:
- If they travel a lot and require assistance taking care of legal and financial matters and signing documents in their absence
- If they’re a older adult who needs help managing daily affairs or entered an assisted living community
- If they’re unable to make decisions due to illness or injury
How an Estate Planning Attorney in FL Creates a Power of Attorney
To establish power of attorney, your lawyer first needs to draft a document that meets the requirements of the applicable state law. Afterwards, they’ll review it with you to ensure it reflects your wishes.
The document should include the name and contact information of the person receiving the power of attorney and a detailed description of the powers being granted. Once the document is complete, you’ll sign it in front of a notary public. Your attorney then provides assistance to you by filing the power of attorney document with the appropriate local or state offices as necessary.
