Can I do a power of attorney without a lawyer?

Do I need a lawyer to prepare a Power of Attorney? There is no legal requirement that a Power of Attorney be prepared or reviewed by a lawyer. However, if you are going to give important powers to an agent, it is wise to get individual legal advice before signing a complicated form.

What can a POA not do?

An agent cannot:

• Change a principal’s will.
• Break their fiduciary duty to act in the principal’s best interest.
• Make decisions on behalf of the principal after their death.
• Change or transfer POA to someone else.

How do you create a power of attorney?

Preparing a Power of Attorney Document Check your state’s requirements. Download or write a power of attorney form. Name the parties. Name the powers granted. Note powers that a principal cannot confer. Gather witnesses. Prepare a Revocation of Power of Attorney if you change your mind.

Why do you need power of attorney?

There are several situations where someone may need a power of attorney. Some of the reasons for a power of attorney include granting someone the ability to act on another person’s behalf such as in managing finances, making healthcare decisions, and conducting real estate or other transactions.

Do-it-yourself power of attorney?

Do-It-Yourself Power of Attorney. A power of attorney grants someone else the power to perform legal acts for you, such as consenting to medical treatment or signing a contract in your name.

What is a power of attorney form?

A power of attorney form is a legal contract that gives one person – called the agent – the right to make financial, legal or health care decisions for another person – called the principal. There are several different types of power of attorney, such as a health care power of attorney, a durable power of attorney or a general power of attorney.