A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows an individual, known as the principal, to appoint someone else, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, to make decisions and act on their behalf. This authority can be broad or limited, depending on the specific terms of the Power of Attorney document.

A Power of Attorney is important because it allows you to designate someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for yourself. It ensures that your interests are protected and that someone you choose is able to handle your financial, legal, and healthcare matters.

The types of decisions an agent can make under a Power of Attorney depend on the specific powers granted in the document. These powers can include managing bank accounts, paying bills, signing contracts, buying or selling property, making healthcare decisions, and even making decisions regarding end-of-life care.

A Power of Attorney can become effective immediately upon signing, or it can be drafted to become effective only when certain conditions are met, such as when the principal becomes incapacitated. It is important to carefully consider when you want the Power of Attorney to take effect and clearly specify this in the document.

The duration of a Power of Attorney can vary depending on the specific terms outlined in the document. It can be temporary, lasting for a specific period of time or until a specific event occurs, such as the principal’s recovery from an illness. It can also be durable, meaning it remains in effect until the principal’s death, unless revoked earlier.