A Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare
A power of attorney is a document in which one individual (the “principal”) grants another individual (the “agent”) the authority to act on his behalf, many times according to a specific list of directions.
When it comes to medical decisions, a durable power of attorney, permits the agent to make medical decisions relating to treatment on behalf of the principal and, properly drafted, it allows the agent access to the principal’s important medical records which may be necessary to consider when determining a course of treatment.
Without a valid durable power of attorney for healthcare in place, medical personnel have no obligation to follow anyone’s wishes regarding treatment or consent except for the patient’s. However, with one, an agent is able to take any action which the principal would be permitted to take on his own behalf, ensuring that there is always a trusted individual that can make decisions for you.
A Durable Power of Attorney for Finances and Property
With a valid durable power of attorney for finances and property an agent should be able to access the principal’s bank accounts and financial records, pay rent, utilities and credit card bills, manage investments and loans and so on.
Without one, financial institutions like banks, utility providers or even landlords typically will not permit an individual that is not named on an account to access its funds or information. This means that if you are in the hospital for an extended period of time unable to act on your own