Legal Question in Social Security Law in Massachusetts

Re: power of atty

A "power of attorney" is useful document when one person requires someone else to act for him/her. Example, if a person is to have a serious operation and will not be able to handle his/her own affairs, then a power of attorney will allow matters to be taken care of. Because of the very

nature of the instrument, there are few "standard"

forms, but each is usually written to cover the individual situation. Therefore your question can be answered that the power of attorney does whatever powers are granted, and not beyond. Sometimes the courts are asked to determine the breadth of a power of attorney where the writing is not clear. As a general rule a competent attorney should be engaged to write a power of attorney but only after a conference as to what is needed and why. Much harm can occur if the person appointed under the power of attorney does not have the interests of the party granting the power of attorney at heart.

affairs