What is General Power of Attorney?
The concept of a general power of attorney is an essential legal instrument that allows an individual, known as the principal, to grant another person, known as the attorney-in-fact or agent, the authority to act on their behalf in various legal and financial matters. This written document outlines the scope of the agent’s authority and serves as a critical tool for ensuring that the principal’s interests are protected when they are unable to manage their own affairs.
A general power of attorney is typically used when the principal is temporarily or permanently incapacitated, traveling, or simply wants to delegate certain responsibilities to someone they trust. By granting this power, the principal can have peace of mind knowing that their financial and legal affairs will be handled efficiently and effectively.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the definition, types, and key aspects of a general power of attorney to provide a comprehensive understanding of this important legal document.