Estate Planning
Durable Power
of Attorney in Florida
Without a Power of Attorney, even your spouse may be legally blocked from managing your finances if you are incapacitated. This is one document every adult needs in place before they need it.
The Basics
What Is a Durable Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes another person , your "agent" , to manage your financial and legal affairs on your behalf. The "durable" designation means it remains valid even if you become mentally incapacitated.
Without a durable POA, even your spouse may be legally blocked from accessing accounts in your name alone, handling your business, or making financial decisions on your behalf. The only alternative is a court-ordered guardianship , an expensive, public, and time-consuming process.
A well-drafted POA names the right person, defines the scope of their authority, and gives your family the power to act immediately when they need to most.
Schedule a Discovery CallWatch: Why Every Adult Needs a Power of Attorney
What Your Agent Can Do
Six Powers Your Agent Can Hold
Manage Bank Accounts
Your agent can pay bills, move funds, and manage day-to-day financial transactions on your behalf while you are unable to do so.
Handle Real Estate
Your agent can sign closing documents, manage rental property, refinance a mortgage, or sell your home if circumstances require it.
File Taxes
Your agent can prepare, sign, and file federal and state tax returns , and respond to the IRS on your behalf if needed.
Manage Investments
Your agent can oversee brokerage accounts, make investment decisions, and manage retirement accounts according to your wishes.
Avoid Guardianship Court
Without a POA, your family must petition a court to be named your legal guardian , a costly, public, and emotionally draining process that a simple document prevents.
Run a Business
Your agent can manage business operations, sign contracts, and protect your business interests if you become temporarily or permanently incapacitated.
Why LCO Law
A POA That Works When Your Family Needs It
A template POA downloaded online may look valid but fail to meet Florida's specific execution requirements or lack the authorities your family will actually need. We make sure your document is properly drafted, witnessed, notarized, and ready to be accepted by any bank or institution.
- We discuss your family situation to determine the right scope of authority
- Your POA is prepared under Florida's 2011 Power of Attorney Act requirements
- We help you choose and brief your agent on their responsibilities
- Your document includes all standard "hot powers" required by Florida law
- We coordinate your POA with your overall estate plan for seamless protection
Common Questions
Power of Attorney FAQ
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule Your Free Discovery Call
Talk with our team about your situation and we will help you understand exactly what documents you need to protect yourself and your family.
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