Attorneys-in-fact

An attorney-in-fact is a person authorized to act on behalf of another person (the principal) in legal or business matters. This authorization is typically granted through a document called a power of attorney. Their powers are specifically outlined in the power of attorney, which can be broad (general power of attorney) or limited to specific actions (special power of attorney). The attorney-in-fact is a fiduciary, obligated to act in the principal's best interests and often without any legal training.

Attorneys-in-fact meaning with examples

• Mrs. Gable appointed her son as her attorney-in-fact so he could manage her finances while she recovered from surgery. He was responsible for paying her bills, managing her investments, and communicating with her financial advisors according to the power of attorney document. This relieved Mrs. Gable of these responsibilities.
• Mr. Henderson granted his business partner, the attorney-in-fact, the authority to sign contracts and manage the company's bank accounts. He understood this was a temporary agreement to facilitate business while he was traveling overseas, ensuring the company could continue its operations smoothly in his absence.
• After being diagnosed with dementia, Sarah’s family sought a legal document allowing Sarah’s daughter to be the attorney-in-fact and manage her healthcare decisions. The daughter would now consult with doctors, give consent for medical procedures, and make end-of-life decisions as specified in the power of attorney.
• Before the trip, James established his wife as the attorney-in-fact granting her authority to sell his car and manage all their bank accounts. He gave clear written instructions, hoping her powers would not be required, but ensured she was legally covered in the event of his death or serious illness.