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Thu 9 Mar, 2006 10:24 am
I hold the Power of Attorney for my mother, and unfortunately, because of her age, and condition, am obliged to use it.
There is a minor question that I would like to ask. Sometimes I will say to people that I am dealing with in regards to my mother, "I hold the power of attorney."
I have also said, "I am the power of attorney", but that doesn't sound correct.
I am "the attorney for my mother" does not sound right either, as I am not her lawyer.
What is the correct way to address my legal relationship with my mother to banks and institutions that I am dealing with on her behalf?
Phoenix, I think it's, "I have the power of attorney." This clarifies that you are NOT an attorney, but indicates that you may make decisions for her as well as sign her checks, etc.
Letty- Thanks. That sounds good. The whole thing has been so awkward for me.
I know, honey. More later as I must run.
I'd say it the way Letty does: "I have power of attorney."
Actually, though, an attorney is anyone who acts on behalf of someone else. Over time, "attorney" has become synonymous with "lawyer," but that's not how the word was initially understood.
The designation is "Attorney-in-Fact."
Yeah, attorney in fact, but then you have to explain what that means every time.
power of attorney
here is a description of 'power of attorney' as it applies in new york state , perhaps you'll find it useful. hbg
...NEW YORK STATE POWER OF ATTORNEY...