What is Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a comprehensive legal document that enables you, as the “donor,” to appoint one or more individuals, referred to as “attorneys,” to act on your behalf in making important decisions, particularly in scenarios where you may become ill, incapacitated, or involved in an accident. This powerful tool provides an essential layer of protection, ensuring that your wishes and preferences are upheld even when you are unable to communicate them yourself.

To be eligible to create a Power of Attorney, the donor must be at least 18 years old and possess full mental capacity, which means having a clear understanding of the implications of the authority being granted. It is crucial for the donor to thoughtfully consider who they appoint as their attorneys, as these individuals will have significant responsibilities regarding financial matters, healthcare decisions, and other critical issues during times of vulnerability.

There are two types of POA – Health & Welfare and Financial, which give the attorney the power to make decisions about various critical aspects of a person’s life and finances.

This distinction between the two types of powers of attorney is crucial for ensuring comprehensive coverage of both health-related and financial needs in the event of unforeseen circumstances.