A Florida power of attorney provides a way for a person to assign his or her legal authority over his or her financial (and other) matters to another person. This allows the other person, or agent, to act on the person’s, or principal’s, behalf. Many people use this type of form when they know they are going to be away or they want to plan for a time when they may be incapacitated.
Since the agent will be acting in the principal’s place with the principal’s finances or other assets, it is vitally important that the principal choose someone they trust implicitly. Usually, the principal will choose a trusted friend or relative.
Signing Requirements (§ 709.2105(2)): Two (2) witnesses and a notary public.
General (Financial) Power of Attorney – Used when someone is unavailable and wants an agent to stand in their place. It becomes void, however, if the principal becomes incapacitated.
Signing Requirements (§ 709.2105(2)): Two (2) witnesses and a notary public.
Medical Power of Attorney Form – This form allows a person to pick a friend or relative who will be able to make decisions on health matters, in the event the person can’t communicate or make decisions for themselves.
Signing Requirements (§ 765.202): Two (2) witnesses.
Minor (Child) Power of Attorney – This document allows a person to assign temporary guardianship over their children in the event they are going to be away for a limited period of time.
Signing Requirements (§ 709.2105(2)): Required to be signed by two (2) witnesses and acknowledged before a notary public.
Revocation of a Power of Attorney – This document revokes a previously entered into power of attorney. It can only be signed if the principal is still competent.
Signing Requirements: Recommended to sign in the same manner as the original power of attorney.
Tax Power of Attorney (DR-835)– This document allows a principal to appoint a specific person, usually a tax advisor, who will take care of any filings on behalf of an individual or entity with the Department of Revenue.