What is a durable power of attorney?
A durable power of attorney is a written instrument where you (as the “principal”) appoint one or more persons (as “agents”) to act on your behalf. An agent, for example, might be able to sign a check on your checking account, to sign a tax return for you, or buy and sell property in your name. An agent can even be provided with the legal authority to make gifts of your assets (but only if this is specifically outlined in the instrument).