Baton Rouge Power of Attorney Lawyer

A general power of attorney is a legal document that grants broad authority to an agent, giving non-specific powers to handle a wide range of matters on behalf of the principal. These general powers include the ability to manage finances and legalities, including handling transactions, signing documents, and making financial and medical decisions. Thes powers of attorney are particularly useful if the principal becomes incapacitated, as it allows the agent to act with a high degree of flexibility. While it offers general powers without so much specificity, it is important to understand the implications, especially in the context of elder law, to ensure that the agent’s actions align with the principal’s wishes.

A financial power of attorney focuses solely on financial decisions and legally binding contracts. It grants the agent authority to manage the principal’s finances, such as banking, investments, paying bills, and filing taxes. These powers of attorney do not continue in the event of the principal’s incapacitation unless it is specifically designated as durable.

A medical power of attorney, also known as a healthcare power of attorney or healthcare proxy, allows the agent to have access to protected health information and make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal if they are unable to do so themselves due to being incapacitated or legally incompetent. Common medical decisions typically involve medical treatments, surgeries, and end-of-life decisions. It is essential to appoint someone who understands your preferences and values to make appropriate medical decisions, such as a close family member or highly trusted individual.

A durable power of attorney, whether for financial or medical matters, remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated or legally incompetent in some way. In Louisiana, any powers of attorney can be made durable by including specific language stating that it survives the principal’s incapacity. A Baton Rouge estate planning attorney can make sure to include this language in your legal document if desired.

A limited or special power of attorney grants the agent authority to perform specific tasks or make decisions on behalf of the principal. This grants limited powers for specific financial decisions, such as selling a property or managing investments, where the principal wishes to delegate limited authority without granting full control. Granting only certain powers to an agent can protect the principal from a complete loss of control over the estate and/or quality of life.

A springing power of attorney only becomes effective when a specific event or condition occurs, such as the principal’s incapacity. It is essential to clearly define the triggering conditions, and a Baton Rouge power of attorney lawyer can help you do that.