What Is a Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that grants another person (your agent) the authority to make decisions on your behalf. This document ensures that your affairs continue to be managed effectively and in your best interests, even if you are unable to oversee them yourself. POAs can be temporary or long-term, depending on your needs.

A well-prepared power of attorney can prevent legal disputes, protect your assets, and ensure your healthcare wishes are carried out without unnecessary delays.

Types of Power of Attorney We Offer

At our firm, we understand that each situation is unique. We help you select and draft the right power of attorney for your specific needs:

• Financial Power of Attorney – Grants authority to an agent to manage finances, pay bills, handle investments, and oversee real estate transactions on your behalf.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney – Allows a trusted individual to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated or unable to communicate.
• Durable Power of Attorney – Ensures that your POA remains valid even if you become mentally or physically incapacitated.
• Limited or Special Power of Attorney – Grants specific authority for a defined period or purpose, such as handling a single transaction or representing you in a legal matter.

Each type of POA serves a different purpose, and selecting the right one is essential to ensuring your affairs are handled as you intend.

Why You Need a Power of Attorney

Prevent Legal Complications and Protect Your Interests

Many people assume that their spouse or children will automatically have the right to handle their affairs if they become incapacitated. However, without a legally binding power of attorney, your loved ones may face costly and time-consuming legal hurdles to gain decision-making authority.

A power of attorney ensures that:

• Your financial and medical affairs are handled according to your wishes.
• Your loved ones avoid the stress of court intervention and unnecessary legal battles.
• You maintain control by appointing a trusted agent to act on your behalf.
• Important decisions are made quickly and efficiently without delays.

Having a properly drafted POA in place removes uncertainty and ensures smooth transitions during unexpected situations.

How to Choose the Right Power of Attorney Agent

Your agent (the person you designate as your power of attorney) will have significant control over your financial or medical decisions, so it is crucial to choose someone:

• Trustworthy and responsible – Someone who will act in your best interests.
• Organized and reliable – Able to manage finances, healthcare, or legal matters effectively.
• Willing to take on the responsibility – POA decisions can be complex and require careful judgment.
• Familiar with your wishes and values – Ensuring that decisions align with your preferences.
• We can help you evaluate your options and select the right person to serve as your power of attorney.

Updating or Revoking a Power of Attorney

Your power of attorney should be reviewed regularly to ensure it still reflects your wishes. You may need to update or revoke a POA if:

• Your chosen agent is no longer available or capable of handling your affairs.
• You want to appoint a new agent who better aligns with your needs.
• Your financial or medical situation has changed.
• You want to add specific limitations to the agent’s authority.

We provide legal assistance in modifying, revoking, or drafting new POAs to ensure they align with your current circumstances.

With more than 35 years of experience, John Kennemer has helped countless individuals and families secure their financial and medical futures through well-structured power of attorney documents. Our firm ensures that your legal documents are drafted correctly, comply with Alabama laws, and offer the protection you need.

We provide personalized legal counsel, helping you make informed decisions about your estate and future planning.

Contact Us Today to Set Up Your Power of Attorney

If you need to establish or update a power of attorney, our firm is here to guide you through the process. Let us help you safeguard your interests and ensure your affairs are handled with confidence and care.