Power of Attorney

Definition: A legal instrument authorizing an agent to act for a principal within its stated powers and applicable law.

Example

An owner executes an appropriate power of attorney permitting an agent to handle a specified real estate transaction.

Keep the distinction clear

The document does not necessarily grant unlimited authority. A durable power survives the principal's incapacity under its governing rules, but it does not continue after the principal's death.

Related terms

Attorney-in-Fact · Principal · Agent

Keep studying

Buyer Agreements and Florida Agency: What Changed?

References: Florida Statutes 709.2102: powers of attorney definitions · Florida Statutes 709.2109: termination of powers of attorney

Pronunciation (US): POW-er uv uh-TUR-nee (capitals show stress)

Pronunciation reference: Merriam-Webster