What does power of attorney mean?

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What does power of attorney mean?

My father has a Will and Trust in place, however my brother would like for my father to give him power of attorney in case there are health issues later on down the line because my father’s 89. I thought power of attorney was all inclusive and gave him the power over the whole estate, just wanting something that would be a health proxy so to speak. What would that document would be?

Asked on October 2, 2015 under Estate Planning, Oklahoma

Answers:

S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 8 years ago | Contributor

Power of attorney is an instrument document authorizing another to act as one's agent or attorney.
There are different types of power of attorney.  Your brother is seeking a durable power of attorney for health care which will allow him to make medical decisions for your father in the event your father is unable to make those decisions himself.
This is separate from a power of attorney to handle your father's financial matters.
 
 


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