Power of Attorney in Los Angeles
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants one person the authority to act on another person’s behalf. The person who creates the power of attorney (the principal) can choose the person (the agent or the attorney-in-fact) who will have authority to act on their behalf and define the extent of that authority.
If you would like assistance establishing a lawful power of attorney or contesting one, the Law Office of Mitchell A. Port is here to help. We have extensive experience with these useful and powerful documents and are eager to help you achieve your goals. The well-being of you and your family is important to us – let Mitch Port provide the support and counsel you deserve.
Call (310) 526-3433 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free phone consultation today.
What Are the Types of Power of Attorney?
The type of power of attorney you create depends on the extent of authority you want the agent to have.
You can create a:
- General power of attorney: This grants the agent broad authority for a variety of legal matters except for health care-related decisions.
- Limited power of attorney: This grants the agent the authority to act only in a certain defined situation. For example, a limited power of attorney may be established to grant someone the authority to sign a real estate transaction or other documents on your behalf.
- Power of attorney for health care: If you wish to grant someone the authority to make health care decisions on your behalf, you must create a power of attorney for health care. This grants the person the right to make decisions regarding your medical treatment.
How to Obtain a Power of Attorney
In order to establish a power of attorney, the principal must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. A general or limited power of attorney must be signed by the principal before a notary public or before two witnesses. A healthcare power of attorney must be signed by the principal before two witnesses who also sign the document.
How To Contest a Power of Attorney
What happens if you believe that your loved one’s power of attorney was created unlawfully, or if you believe that your loved one’s attorney-in-fact is acting unethically? You can contest a power of attorney – and the Law Office of Mitchell A. Port can help.
Powers of attorney can be contested if it is believed that:
- The document was created by coercion or force
- The principal was not of sound mind when the POA was created
- The document contains unclear or false information
- The agent has acted illegally or failed to follow the principal’s wishes
- The POA is invalid or illegitimate
No matter what your case involves, our Los Angeles lawyer can assist with your power of attorney matter. We look forward to serving you and meeting your needs.
Call (310) 526-3433 or fill out our online contact from today to get started.
