The power of attorney s termination is stated in the document. In addition to that, it could also end upon the death of the principal or when the principal, given that h/she is still competent, decided to destroy the document. The principal could also sign or create another document, duly notarized, stating the termination of the document. The durable power of attorney could be a general, healthcare or special power of attorney containing specific durability provisions. In case you suddenly get mentally incapacitated while any of the three kinds of power of attorney is in effect, the durability provision of the document would allow the agent to stay as your attorney-in-fact indefinitely. It is recommended that you consult a lawyer to avoid conflicts or hassles in the future. The lawyer can draft the legal document and inform all the parties involved about the rights and duties stipulated in it. Once the draft is done, the lawyer will keep a copy of the document that will come in handy should legal disputes arise in the future. This is especially true with people who are gravely injured and cannot make decisions for themselves like for instance when they are under comatose or when they cannot speak, move or are invalid. Power of attorney is one of the ways that you can appoint a representative for you should something happen to you. You could appoint a lawyer as your agent. However, it is not a requirement. In fact, you could appoint just about anyone (in legal age) as your attorney-in-fact. The appointment and authorization should be clearly stated in the legal document (a power of attorney is actually a legally effective document). In the power of attorney, especially for the durable one, that same agent is given the full authority to manage and handle all your money and assets in case you get mentally incapacitated. That is why many people choose to appoint their spouses or relatives as agents. But there are still issues and conflicts arising in such situations.