Legal Question in Elder Law in Washington

Re: power of attorney

The attorney in fact is the person who holds the principal's power of attorney. He can only do what the principal can do. Adults cannot force other adults to do anything the other adults don't want to do (taxes and a few other things excepted).

But I have to tell you I watched an old lady in court a few years ago, being found incompetent because no child of hers would step up to the plate and look after her. It was horrifying to think that her grown children could not be bothered to help her gain access to services so she'd have a roof over her head. Adult protective services had basically found this woman out wandering, and she knew who her kids were, but they refused to help her.

If you can't help your parent, ask the State to provide services.

Elizabeth Powell

Re: power of attorney

Ms. Powell is correct as usual. If you have any more questions, you should contact her directly at her office.

I can help, too, but I am currently on vacation.