A power of attorney lets you choose someone you trust to act on your behalf. It is one of the most important — and most flexible — tools in an estate plan.
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document in which you, the principal, authorize another person, your agent, to act for you. Depending on how it is written, a POA can be a powerful safeguard if you are ever unable to handle your own affairs.
Common types
- —Durable power of attorney — remains effective if you become incapacitated
- —Limited or special power of attorney — covers a specific task or time period
- —Financial power of attorney — covers banking, property, and financial matters
Why it matters
Without a valid power of attorney, your family may have to seek a court-supervised guardianship to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated — a process that is often slower, costlier, and more stressful than simply having a POA in place.
Choosing your agent
Because your agent may have significant authority, it is essential to choose someone trustworthy and to define their powers carefully. Florida has specific requirements for how a power of attorney must be signed and witnessed to be valid.
Hill & Hill can prepare a power of attorney tailored to your needs as part of a complete estate plan.