Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington
Power of Attorney
Is a form for power of attorney that I purchased at an office supply store sufficient enough to use as a legal form?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Power of Attorney
No.
I have had many cases dealing with problems arising from defective powers of attorney. We also have a brand new law in Washington amending the power of attorney provisions, so it is really worth it to have an attorney do one.
I can do one for you by email for $100.
Re: Power of Attorney
As with any other profession you will have differences of opinion. I tend to disagree with the previous attorney's response. "It depends" is a better response. The forms sold at stationary stores can be adequate depending on your situation. The value of an attorney is determining the best document for your specific set of facts, not the actual document drafted. You will find that most attorneys would be willing to advise and/or draft a power of attorney over email if that is more efficient.