Firm Provides Legal Assistance with Power of Attorney Documents in Florida

Experienced Palm Harbor attorney can guide you through the process

We all need a little assistance from time to time. As people get older however, serious problems can arise if someone’s capacity to handle key tasks diminishes significantly. If you are concerned that you or an elderly loved one no longer is able to manage finances, pay monthly bills or make healthcare decisions, it might be time to consider a power of attorney. At the Law Office of Nancy J. Oset in Palm Harbor, I provide a wide range of estate planning services, including the development of power of attorney documents. My firm customizes each grant of legal authority to fit the precise objectives of clients and to anticipate future concerns that could arise. No matter what your current situation involves, I provide patient, empathetic service to help ensure my clients’ needs are properly addressed.

Types of powers of attorney available in Florida

A power of attorney is an estate planning instrument that transfers authority from one person, known as the principal, to another person, called the agent. Via power of attorney, or POA, you can appoint someone you trust to manage necessary tasks for your health, safety and welfare. Florida law recognizes three main types of power of attorney grants:

• General power of attorney — Once executed, this document transfers all authority the principal held to the agent. The agent is then empowered to manage finances, buy and sell property, pay bills, take out loans and make medical decisions on the principal’s behalf.
• Limited power of attorney — Not everyone is comfortable with the sweeping transfer of power authorized by a general POA. If a principal wants to retain some autonomy, he or she can shift specifically named powers to an agent. Have finances become too tedious? You can give a trusted individual the ability to manage your investments and pay your bills. Do you find discussing your medical conditions unsettling? It might be better for your health to grant medical power of attorney to a capable loved one who can process complex information from your providers.
• Durable power of attorney — This POA can be general or limited, but what sets it apart is that execution of the document does not trigger the transfer of authority. Instead, the document cites certain events that would prompt the transfer at later date. For example, you can state that if you are ever mentally incapacitated, your designated agent will have authority to manage your affairs and handle decisions relating to your treatment.

When you retain my services for your POA, I work closely with you to craft a document that meets your needs now and in the future.

Skillful advocate works to resolve disputes over powers of attorney

As often happens with wills, disputes can arise within families over the validity of a power of attorney. Some family members may feel the agent has used undue influence to be appointed as agent and does not have the principal’s best interests at heart. Someone might question the agent’s ability to manage finances responsibly or make sound healthcare decisions. When conflicts occur, it may be necessary to defend the POA in court. In my practice, I represent agents and concerned loved ones who seek to challenge someone they to believe to be an unworthy agent.

Contact a compassionate estate planning attorney to discuss powers of attorney

The Law Office of Nancy J. Oset in Palm Harbor advises clients on powers of attorney in Florida. Please call 727-510-4686 or contact me online to make an appointment. My main office is conveniently located south of town center on Palm Harbor Boulevard.