A Power of Attorney is a document by which you give another person the power or authority to act on your behalf. The person you give the power to is called yoru "attorney in fact". Your "attorney in fact" does not have to be an attorney at law, but can be any adult person.
We recommend that persons of retirement age or those facing serious medical conditions have a stand-by Power of Attorney naming a trusted family member or friend to act for them in the event of incapacity caused by accident or illness. Powers of Attorney are not expensive and could abe worth their weight in gold if ever needed. This is so because the only alternative may be guardianship proceedings, which are very expensive, court supervised proceedings.
Joint ownership is not a recommended substitute for a Power of Attorney because (a) it exposes your assets to the liabilities of the joint owner or wrongful use of funds by them, without the means of redress (b) it does not solve the problem of who has power for an incapacitated person to make and sign tax returns, medical claims, homestead exemptions, endorse checks, claim refunds, arrange for medical care and many other things.
A stand-by Power of Attorney should be updated periodically if the date becomes stale or circumstances change. A Power of Attorney can be easily revoked.
DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY
Gives your attorney in fact broad general powers. This Power of Attorney continues even though you become incompetent and therefore we urge discretion in who you appoint.
MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY
Gives your attorney in fact authority to arrange for and consent to medical care and procedures if you are unable to make or communicate your decisions. This document also contains a living will provision.
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
Gives your attorney in fact limited authority to conduct specified business such as selling a particular piece of real estate.
We also prepare wills, living trusts and real estate documents. We invite you to ask about prices on any of our services.
LISTED BELOW ARE SEVERAL TYPES OF POWERS OF ATTORNEY AVAILABLE IN FLORIDA
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience.
The information on this website is general in nature and should not be relied on as advice for any particular situation without further consultation with an attorney.
You may obtain free written information regarding the qualification and experience of this law firm by writing to or calling the law firm during regular business hours. David A. Peek, Attorney.
Schedule A Consultation (727) 393-8822
