NOTE: The information on this page are provided as a service and is not intended to take the place of sound legal advice from a competent legal professional.

A power of attorney is a legally-binding document which authorizes any person to act on your behalf in any matter you designate.

Types of Powers of Attorney

Powers of attorney can be "general," which means that the attorney-in-fact can do any act on your behalf in all of your personal affairs. A general power of attorney is rarely recommended and given to only those whom you trust absolutely.

The more common type of power of attorney is a special or limited power of attorney, which allows your designee to act only in certain matters, such as buying or selling a car or house.

A power of attorney can by "durable", which means that it will continue to be in effect if you become mentally disabled and unable to competently handle your affairs.

Michigan passed a law several years ago which allows a person to designate another person called a "patient advocate". A patient advocate is authorized to make life and death medical decisions concerning the person. The Michigan National Guard State JAG Office does not assist soldiers or airman in filling out patient advocate forms. A civilian attorney should be consulted.