What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney serves a useful function, when used appropriately. When used appropriately, the Power of Attorney is a wonderful tool to make sure your property, financial, and/or legal decisions are made effectively and efficiently by the person you trust and who will be responsible for making these important decisions. However, the Power of Attorney can also be a dangerous weapon in the hands of an agent who is not trustworthy and does not act in your best interest. The Power of Attorney can also be a dangerous weapon when prepared by a short-sighted legal or financial professional.

For people who do not have the independent capacity to make decisions for themselves, a Power of Attorney is, many times, the only way to a successful long-term care plan. Having the necessary and appropriate authority within a valid Power of Attorney will assist your agent/family member/decision-maker make the decisions to put the plan together and put it in place. Without this authority, your family’s only other option might be a guardianship, and all of the problems associated with that.