Question

A power of attorney can be authorized to act based on a Medical or a Durable Power of Attorney document. When does the power of attorney's authorization end?

Answer 1

A power of attorney is a legal paper which permits one person to act on behalf of another person.

One manner a power of attorney ends is when the principal revokes it by completing a revocation paper. This notice is generally sent to the agent and other parties that have the power of attorney on record.

The motive behind a power of attorney is to allow the agent the authority to act on an agent's behalf while she/he is still living. Therefore, all powers of attorney automatically expire when the agent is made aware of the principal's death

Some states, such as North Carolina and California, have special medical powers of attorney. This type of power of attorney is for medical decisions and only becomes effective when a physician certifies the principal can no longer make decisions about his own health care.