A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants a designated person the authority to act on behalf of another person (known as the principal). This document is often used when the principal cannot make decisions or take actions on their behalf due to illness, injury, or other incapacities. A POA can cover many responsibilities, from managing financial affairs to making medical decisions. While hiring a lawyer to get and execute a Power of Attorney (POA) in Texas is not required, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney, especially if you have complex financial or legal affairs.
Here at the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, our experienced attorneys can help you draft a POA that is specific to your situation and complies with all the legal requirements in Texas. This can be especially important if you want to impose specific wishes or restrictions on your agent. In addition, they can help you understand the responsibilities and obligations of the agent under a POA and ensure that they act in your best interest. They can also assist in revoking a POA if necessary.
Types of Power of Attorney
| Type of POA | Description | Uses |
| General POA | Grants broad powers to the agent to act on behalf of the principal | Managing financial affairs, conducting business transactions, signing legal documents |
| Special POA | Grants limited powers to the agent for a specific purpose | Selling a property, making medical decisions, managing a business |
| Durable POA | Remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated | Managing financial affairs, making medical decisions |
| Springing POA | Only goes into effect when a specific event or condition is met | Becoming incapacitated, undergoing medical procedures |
| Financial POA | Grants the agent the power to manage financial affairs on behalf of the principal | Paying bills, managing investments, filing taxes |
| Medical POA | Grants the agent the power to make medical decisions on behalf of the principal | Deciding on medical treatments, choosing doctors, making end-of-life decisions |
| Limited POA | Grants the agent specific, limited powers for a certain period | Signing a document, representing the principal in a legal proceeding, managing a specific asset |
It is important to note that the uses of a Power of Attorney can vary depending on the specific terms outlined in the document and the laws of the state where it is executed. It is recommended to consult with an experienced attorney to determine the appropriate type of POA for your specific situation.
Why You Need a Power of Attorney in Texas
In Texas, a POA is essential for ensuring that your wishes are carried out if you are unable to make decisions or handle your affairs.
Here are some reasons why you need a Power of Attorney in Texas:
Planning for Incapacity:
A POA is an essential part of planning for the possibility that you may become incapacitated due to illness, injury, or age-related decline. Without a POA, your family may have to go to court to obtain guardianship or conservatorship to decide on your behalf. This can be time-consuming and expensive, and the court may not appoint the person you would have chosen.
Managing Business Affairs:
A POA can give someone the authority to manage your business affairs if you are unavailable or unable to do so. This can be especially important for small business owners or those who travel frequently.
Avoiding Family Disputes:
By appointing a specific person to act as your agent under a POA, you can avoid potential disputes among family members who may have different ideas about handling your affairs. This can be especially important when there are complex family dynamics or disagreements about how assets should be distributed.
Making Medical Decisions:
A medical POA, also known as a healthcare proxy, allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot. This can be especially important if you strongly feel about specific medical treatments or end-of-life care.
Managing Finances:
A POA can give someone the authority to manage your finances if you cannot do so. This can include paying bills, managing investments, and making other financial decisions.
Peace of Mind:
A POA can give you and your loved ones peace of mind, knowing that your affairs will be managed according to your wishes if you cannot do so. This can be especially important for those with complex financial or legal affairs.
In Texas, a POA must be in writing, signed by the person granting the authority (the principal), and notarized. The document must also be clear and specific about the powers being granted. The person named as the agent under a POA has a legal obligation to act in the principal’s best interests and keep accurate records of their actions and decisions. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney to ensure that your POA is properly drafted and executed following Texas law.
Requirements For A POA in Texas
Here are specific requirements that must be met to create a valid POA in Texas:
Capacity:
The person creating the POA (the “principal”) must have the mental capacity to understand the nature and consequences of their actions. This means they must be of sound mind and able to decide for themselves.
Authorization:
The POA must be in writing, signed by the principal, and must specifically authorize the agent (the person appointed to act on the principal’s behalf) to perform certain actions or make certain decisions.
Types of POA:
Texas recognizes several types of POA, including General, Special, Durable, and Springing. The type of POA chosen will determine the scope of the agent’s authority.
Specificity:
The POA must be specific about the powers being granted to the agent. It should include a detailed description of the actions the agent is authorized to take on behalf of the principal, including any limitations or restrictions.
Notarization:
The POA must be signed in the presence of a notary public who will verify the principal’s identity and witness the document’s signing. This is important to ensure that the POA is legally binding and enforceable.
Witnesses:
Texas law requires two witnesses to be present when the POA is signed, in addition to the notary public. The witnesses must be at least 14 years old and cannot be the agent or related to the agent by blood, marriage, or adoption.
Revocation:
The principal can revoke a POA at any time, as long as they have the capacity to do so. This can be done by executing a revocation document and notifying the agent and any third parties relying on the POA.
It is important to note that there are certain situations in which a POA may not be valid. For example, if the POA was created under duress or fraud, or if the agent exceeds the scope of their authority. Additionally, a POA may not be used to make decisions about certain matters, such as medical treatment or voting. To ensure that your POA is properly executed and legally binding, working with an experienced attorney is important. An attorney can help you understand the specific requirements for creating a POA in Texas and can assist with drafting a document that meets your needs and goals.
