Financial Durable Powers of Attorney

There are two kinds of durable financial powers of attorney. One is effective immediately. The other is effective only upon the occurrence of an event named within the durable power of attorney such as someone’s disability. The financial durable power of attorney that is effective at a future time, such as disability, is also called a “springing” power of attorney.

A conservatorship proceeding is needed in probate court which is a fairly costly process. There is no guarantee a court will select someone to manage your affairs that you would have selected. A court also may not allow your conservator to do something you would have wanted, such as asset protection, or may permit your conservator to do something you would not want.

Asset protection if someone needs to pay for long term care at home or in a nursing home.

Durable means that if you become disabled then the power of attorney remains in full force and effect.

Please see the FAQ about Michigan’s new durable power of attorney law.

This depends upon the wishes and particular situation and circumstances that the person making the power of attorney faces.

As specific as possible. Your agent may not do something unless the durable power of attorney specifically states that the agent may do the act in question.

The definition of disability is set forth in the power of attorney and is determined by the person making the power of attorney after consulting with their attorney. Typically “disability” requires a written statement by a medical doctor that the principal is unable to manage their financial affairs due to a physical or mental condition. It is not a declaration of incompetency.

Yes, the delay caused by the time needed to have a medical doctor sign the requested statement. Many times your named agent under the durable power of attorney needs to act quickly and waiting for a doctor to sign a statement that you are disabled may cause delays and financial loss.