General power of attorney are voluntary delegations of authority by the principal to the agent. The principal has not given up his or her own power to do these same functions, but rather has granted legal authority to the agent to perform various tasks on the principal’s behalf. In most states, powers of attorney can be and most often are unilateral contracts – that is, signed only by the principal, but accepted by the agent by the act of performance.

Taking the time to sign a power of attorney lessens the burden on family members who would otherwise have to go to court to get authority for performing basic tasks, like writing a check or arranging for home health services. Knowing this has been taken care of in advance is of great comfort to families.

A general power of attorney gives broad authorizations to the agent. The agent may be able to make medical decisions, legal choices, or financial or business decisions. … For example, you could create a special power of attorney which only allows your spouse to make medical decisions on your behalf or may be buying and selling properties for you in UK or overseas.

The General power of attorney would be useful if, for example, you are selling your home and the exchange of contracts is due to take place around the time when you will be away on holiday. You can appoint anyone your attorney while you live in other country and have property overseas or whole family can sent to one person to abroad to manage you’re financial or property matters.

A General Power of Attorney can be either general or limited to specific affairs. For example you could give a Limited Power of Attorney to an attorney just for the sale or the purchase of or single transaction or multiple transactions.

Information Post by Syeda