Best Probate Attorneys in Cincinnati, OH

What Is a Medical Power of Attorney, and When Do I Need One? A medical power of attorney (medical POA) is a document naming someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. It goes into effect when you are incapacitated or otherwise unable to make rational choices. A medical POA can be important for end-of-life care, but you can create one at any age to ensure your wishes are followed if you experience an unexpected illness or have an accident. Who Can Create a Medical Power of Attorney Document? People often think about medical power of attorney, living wills, and other documents as they approach retirement age. However, any adult can create a POA. You need to be a competent adult to draft a power of attorney. In most states, this means you need to be at least 18 years old. The person who creates a POA document is the principal. The person named in the document who will make decisions is known as the agent, agent for the principal, or attorney-in-fact. Who Can You Name in Your Medical POA? Despite names like attorney-in-fact, the person you name as an agent in your medical POA does not have to be a lawyer. In fact, in most states, the person named in your power of attorney document cannot serve as your legal counsel. The only requirement is that they be an adult (18 years or older) and of sound mind when they enter into the agreement to serve as your agent.