A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows one person (the principal) to appoint another person (the agent or attorney-in-fact) to make decisions and act on their behalf. The POA can be either notarized or registered, each with its own implications and benefits.
Types of Power of Attorney:
- General Power of Attorney (GPA): Grants broad powers to the agent to act on behalf of the principal in various matters, including financial, legal, and business activities.
- Special Power of Attorney (SPA): Grants specific powers to the agent for particular tasks or decisions, such as selling a property or managing a bank account.
- Durable Power of Attorney: Remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated.
- Non-Durable Power of Attorney: Becomes invalid if the principal becomes incapacitated.
- Medical Power of Attorney: Allows the agent to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal.