Power of Attorney in Juneau, AK
Are you concerned that you may need someone to take care of your affairs in Juneau for a while?
Do you want a loved one to make crucial medical decisions if you lose the capacity to do so?
There are many reasons why someone from Juneau would consider a power of attorney agreement. The motivations can range from estate planning to the worst-case scenario. No matter the reason, you will want to be sure that you have all the details in place. The information in this article will help you accomplish those goals and connect with an attorney near you.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
The American Bar Association defines power of attorney as a document that gives someone power to act as your legal agent. This authority can be either temporary or permanent. The result is that your designated agent can manage your affairs without your written approval.
Why Would You Need a Power of Attorney?
One of the reasons why you may pursue a POA is for convenience. For example, you may want someone to manage your assets without securing your approval each time. Any Alaska POA can circumvent checks and balance steps and act on your behalf.
Another reason for a POA is that you cannot make legally sound decisions. Accordingly, this arrangement is typical for senior citizens. It is also common for people with physical or mental conditions that prevent them from making decisions.
Types of Power of Attorney In Juneau, Alaska
Not every POA grants the same powers to your agent. In fact, you can choose from a variety of different POAs. This allows you to cater to what best suits your situation.
General Power of Attorney
A general POA grants an array of powers to the agent. These can include:
- Handling your financial matters and accounts
- Managing your insurance needs
- Operating your business
- Making business decisions on your behalf
- Hiring or firing employees
- Settling claims against you
- Changing your estate plan
You may use this type of POA if you are gone for an extended period and need legal representation in Juneau, AK. This legal arrangement may happen during your absence. It may also occur when you cannot make decisions due to an illness or injury.
Special Power of Attorney
A special POA is more specific. It gives you the power to sign off on distinct powers granted to your agent. For example, a limited power of attorney is proper when you only want someone for real estate deals. You may also choose to use a special POA when you don’t have the time to deal with specific affairs.
For example, the Alaska Court System has specific provisions for health care directives. This arrangement can be crucial if you suffer from a dangerous chronic condition. Furthermore, there is an option to give parental powers to someone over your children in Juneau for up to one year.
Health Care Power of Attorney
This type of POA grants your agent the right to make all medical decisions on your behalf. It comes in handy when you are not conscious or are otherwise unable to make decisions regarding your health care. While state laws can differ, your POA could have the ability to make serious decisions, like ending life support.
You may want to use a health care POA if you are elderly or sick. When you cannot make decisions for health reasons, your child or someone you trust can act in your best interests.
Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney (DPOA), enables the agent to control specified functions. DPOAs are useful if you anticipate losing your mental faculties, such as after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. In essence, it acts as a preventative safeguard.
You can designate that you want a durable power of attorney on a form from the state government. It also lets you decide when it starts and how long the DPOA will last. It can begin upon your signature or incapacity in Juneau.
Choosing an Agent
The person you choose as an agent should be someone you trust. Often, people choose a family member as they usually have your best interests in mind and are close to you. However, you can select any individual to be your POA.
Keep in mind that whoever you choose will be in charge of managing your affairs. As a result, you should find someone you trust to honor your wishes.
Appointing Multiple Agents
You have the right to appoint multiple agents in Juneau. Furthermore, you can decide whether they must act together or make decisions separately. This procedure keeps one agent from making too rash of a judgment. However, it can also lead to discrepancies that may cause delays.
At the very least, it is crucial to have a backup POA should something happen to your primary. A successor agent can take control once the primary agent either passes away or cannot carry out the duties of an agent.
Revoking a Power of Attorney in Juneau, Alaska
You can revoke your power of attorney as long as you are of sound mind. You will have to end it in writing and file with the same judiciary in Juneau, AK that handled your original paperwork.
Another party may also try to revoke your POA. Although, that becomes a much more complex legal proceeding and would be difficult to prove. The person would have to show the agent has done something to jeopardize your interests.
You may revoke the entire agreement or specific powers it gives to your agent. According to the current handbook, creating a new document with your attorney in Juneau also makes an older one invalid.
Using a POA to Protect your Interests
You can insert provisions into your agreement that force your agent to report to an outside party. For example, a family accountant or a designated medical doctor could fill this role. This arrangement adds another layer of security and guarantees that another party can review decisions.
The Alaska Court System holds these third parties responsible for their actions. Accordingly, they must act in the best interests of those they represent in Juneau. Otherwise, they open themselves to costly civil liabilities and fines from the principal or their agent.
Do I Need a Lawyer to File POA in Juneau, Alaska?
It is always wise to consult with an attorney who specializes in Juneau trust or estate issues. POA paperwork can be complex, so having a dedicated legal professional on your side is helpful. A lawyer can also help you add provisions to safeguard your interests when you cannot look out for yourself.
Work with an Experienced Local Lawyer in Juneau, Alaska
If you want to create a power of attorney in Alaska, you should begin by speaking with an attorney. We can match you with an experienced Juneau lawyer that can help you navigate your POA. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Alaska state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
