Power of Attorney: What It Is and Why You (Probably) Need One

When life throws the unexpected your way—an illness, an accident, or even travel—having a Power of Attorney (POA) ensures someone you trust can act on your behalf. It’s one of the most straightforward and most powerful legal tools you can put in place.

What Is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you give someone (called an agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to act on your behalf.

You can customize this authority to fit your needs. The most common types include:

• Durable POA – stays valid if you become incapacitated.

• General POA – grants broad powers over financial or legal matters.

• Limited POA – authorizes someone for specific tasks or timeframes.

• Medical POA – allows someone to make healthcare decisions if you can’t.

Why You (Probably) Need One

Many assume Powers of Attorney are just for seniors or those with serious health issues. That’s a myth.

Here’s why almost everyone should have one:

• Prevents court intervention if you become incapacitated.

• Let someone handle your affairs during travel or emergencies.

• Ensures decisions are made by someone you trust, not the court.

• Helps your loved ones avoid stress, confusion, and delays.

Power of Attorney in Real Estate

A POA is especially useful in real estate transactions. If you’re unavailable during a property closing—or need someone to sign documents on your behalf—you can give a trusted person the authority to:

• Sign purchase and sale agreements

• Execute closing documents

• Handle title transfers

• Manage rental or investment property decisions

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This is particularly helpful if you're out of state, abroad, or managing multiple transactions simultaneously.

Let's Take a Look at This Real-Life Example

Imagine you're suddenly hospitalized after an unexpected illness or accident, unable to access your bank accounts or pay bills. While you're focused on recovering, your rent is due, your car payment is scheduled, and your insurance company needs documentation.

With a Power of Attorney in place, your trusted agent can immediately step in—pay your bills, communicate with service providers, and manage your financial responsibilities—so nothing falls through the cracks while you're incapacitated.

Having a Power of Attorney ensures someone you trust can advocate for you and make decisions if you're unable to speak for yourself, especially during a medical emergency.

Let’s Plan Ahead—Together

At Murray Law Firm, P.C., we help clients across Massachusetts establish Powers of Attorney as part of their estate plans or as standalone documents.

We keep the process simple, clear, and affordable.

📅 Schedule your consultation today

📍 Serving clients all over MA