Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Re: stock power

No, you don't need an attorney to fill out a stock power form. The name of the transferee has to be inserted, however, you leave the name of the "attorney" blank so that the transfer agent can insert the name of an indvidual to complete the contemplated transfer. After you have signed the stock power form your signature must be guaranteed in compliance with the green medallion procedure.

Re: stock power

I am a little confused - do you mean a stock power that is used to transfer shares of stock, or a Power of Attorney, naming someone to act if you are incapacitated or not available. In either case, you can do this by yourself, and do not require an attorney's assistance, just following the instructions given you by the transfer agent (to transfer shares) or in the POA form. If you mean a POA, I do suggest using an attorney to assist you, as there are some technical requirements, and some matters that might need the help of an attorney so your document covers all rights you intend the family member to have.