Powers of Attorney Lawyer in Colleyville, Texas

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives a person you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf. This can be an important tool to have in place in case you become incapacitated and are unable to make decisions for yourself.  

Creating a power of attorney can be a complex process, so it’s critical that you consult with a skilled lawyer who can help ensure that your interests are protected. At Brooks P. Lynn, Attorney at Law, I assist clients of all ages in preparing clear, effective, and enforceable powers of attorney. From my office in Colleyville, Texas, I provide friendly and personal service to clients throughout all of Tarrant County.  

Powers of Attorney in Texas  

A power of attorney (POA) is a written authorization allowing one person, known as the agent, to take certain legal actions on behalf of another person, typically called the principal. This document grants authority that can range from making financial decisions and conducting business transactions to healthcare-related decisions, depending on the type of POA that is executed.  

The authority may be exercised at any time specified in the document or take effect only upon incapacity or disability. Under Texas law, the POA must be signed by both parties and notarized before it can be considered valid and legally binding. It’s important to carefully consider whether this kind of arrangement is necessary for your circumstances and review all documents with a knowledgeable attorney prior to signing them.  

What Are the Types of Powers of Attorney? 

Powers of attorney are legal documents that grant an individual (the “principal”) the authority to appoint another person (the “agent”) to act on their behalf in certain legal and financial matters. There are three general types of powers of attorney that vary based on when they become effective and how long they last:  

1. General powers of attorney provide agents with broad authority over the principal’s funds, assets, and legal proceedings, and the roles may even encompass general day-to-day activities;  

2. Durable powers of attorney are effective immediately and can remain active if the principal becomes disabled or incapacitated; and 

3. Limited powers of attorney bestow authority for a very specific purpose within a designated period of time. They enable principals to authorize agents for specific matters rather than provide general all-encompassing roles.  

Consider speaking with a powers of attorney lawyer in Colleyville, Texas, to help you choose the right type of document for your specific needs and circumstances.  

The Importance of Powers of Attorney  

Creating a power of attorney is an important step in planning for the future. It involves naming someone who will be empowered to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you become incapacitated or otherwise unable to make decisions personally.  

Without this, loved ones may be forced to try to get the court’s permission to act on your behalf, making the process long and arduous. Additionally, having a power of attorney can be beneficial in financial matters such as authorizing a bank account or transferring funds if needed. With most aspects of life becoming increasingly complicated these days, it’s important to do everything you can to be prepared for what may come. 

What to Consider When Choosing an Agent  

Trustworthiness, attention to detail, availability, and assertiveness are all important criteria when choosing an agent for a power of attorney: 

• Trustworthiness. It is vital that you can trust your appointed agent to make decisions on your behalf should you not be able to do so. Trustworthiness is perhaps the most critical factor in selecting an agent as it gives you peace of mind that your best interests are at the center of all their decisions.  

• Attention to detail. Choosing an agent who pays attention to details enables them to make informed choices regarding your property, finances, and other day-to-day affairs.  

• Availability. The availability of the chosen agent is also key as they need to be there for any contract signings or legal matters which may arise in a timely manner.  

• Assertiveness. Lastly, being assertive means that the selected individual knows how and when to stand up for your rights if necessary.  

Taking these considerations into account will help ensure that you pick someone who has the characteristics required for a successful power of attorney relationship.