Virginia Legal Aid Workshop: Powers of Attorney

This presentation will review Power of Attorney.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document signed by you that gives someone else the legal authority to make certain decisions and to act on your behalf. You are called the “principal” and the person to whom you give your Power of Attorney is called your “agent” or “attorney in fact.”

Why would I want a Power of Attorney?

You may want to give someone a Power of Attorney if it is difficult for you to handle your own financial affairs, if it is difficult for you to get around, or if you are feeling overwhelmed by the “paperwork” that goes along with your dealings with businesses or agencies.

Another reason you may want a Power of Attorney is that your agent will be able to take care of your affairs if you become temporarily or permanently incapacitated, unless you say otherwise in your Power of Attorney. This may prevent, or delay, the need for a guardianship.