Take note that just because the term attorney is used does not necessarily mean that you need to give an authority only to a lawyer. Your agent or attorney-in-fact could be of any profession, not necessarily a lawyer. There are many things you should understand about power of attorney. First, execution of the power you bestowed does not mean you no longer have to make the decisions. To put it simply, this legal term is a medium for granting an individual the right to make medical, financial, and other decisions on your behalf. Easy to understand, isn t it? The authority to manage another person s affairs may begin immediately or only when the principal can no longer make decisions on his or her own. The former merely authorizes a person to make important medical care decisions such as those regarding use of life support when the principal is mentally incapable of doing this for himself or herself. On the other hand, a living will indicates what a person wants to happen regarding his or her medical care when time comes life support is necessary. To exercise more control on the transactions, the principal is also recommended to ask regular reports from the attorney-in-fact/ agent. Being aware of such issues about the power of attorney could help principals and those who are thinking of getting such document, be cautious. Although, there are forms on the internet that would allow you to create the power of attorney quicker, it is always advised that such document be made in with legal assistance. Laws on creating the power of attorney are different on each state. But almost all of the laws agree that no agent should be below 18 or 21 years old. Time. When choosing the best agent to represent you, then it may be important to consider the amount of time they can spend on managing financial and legal matters. In cases like that, you may opt to get a durable POA that specifies a limited period when the authorization is effective. That document must also indicate the particular terms like your preference when it comes to the minimum sale price. A power-of-attorney document can also save you from hassles as well as unnecessary expenses and waste of time in certain situations.