Two types of power of attorney documents exist. Whether to use a general power of attorney or a durable power of attorney ultimately depends on how much power the grantor wishes to give to the grantee.
History
The general power of attorney is a way to allow someone to act in your behalf in your absence. The durable power of attorney recently emerged to allow a general power of attorney to remain in effect when you need it the most.
Function
A general power of attorney gives someone the legal authority to act on your behalf in almost all situations. The grantee may sign your name, engage in business transactions and make decisions regarding your finances, property and health. A general power of attorney becomes durable by adding specific language to the document.
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Termination
A general power of attorney may terminate for a number of reasons, including the incapacity of the grantor. In other words, if the grantor dies or becomes incapacitated physically or mentally, then the power of attorney terminates. When added provisions make the power of attorney a durable power of attorney, the rights afforded by the document survive the incapacity of the grantor. If the grantor is incapacitant, the grantee can still exercise her power of attorney.