A power of attorney is a written document that enables the person executing the document (the “principal”) to designate a holder of the power (the “agent”) to act on the principal’s behalf for matters described in the document. Typically, a power of attorney is used for financial matters but can be used for other matters such as authorizing a relative to take your child to the hospital for medical care. The attorney-in-fact (agent) is a fiduciary and must account to the principal. The power of attorney can be effective on the date that the principal signs the document or it can “spring” into effect when the principal becomes incapacitated or disabled. A durable power of attorney permits your agent to continue to act on your behalf even if you are incapacitated. Generally, an agent has the power to act on behalf of the principal only with respect to powers specifically enumerated in the document.