Getting a power of attorney (POA) is an important step for old Arizonans. It is extremely helpful in making financial, legal, and healthcare decisions. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial for an elderly person in Arizona to create one:

Understanding Power of Attorney

Power of attorney is a significant legal instrument. The principal authorizes an agent or attorney-in-fact to make specified decisions. Below are different types of POA.

1. The General Power of Attorney gives the agent extensive authority to manage the principal’s affairs.
2. The Limited (Special) Power of Attorney authorizes the agent to act in specified situations or for specific objectives.
3. Durable Power of Attorney stays in force even after the principal becomes incapacitated.
4. The Healthcare POA authorizes the agent to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal.

Steps to Create a Power of Attorney in Arizona

1. Identify the appropriate type of POA based on the elder’s requirements. It can be for financial and/or healthcare purposes.
2. Choose a reliable and trustworthy agent. The individual should have the best interests of the principal in mind.
3. Fill out the forms with detailed information. They would need details about the principal, agent, and powers conferred.
   • Healthcare POA requires specific instructions about medical needs and treatments.
4. Sign the POA forms in front a notary public.
   • Come with one or two witnesses for the signing.
5. Store the original document in a safe place. Provide copies of the POA to the parties below.
   • The agent
   • The principal’s financial institutions
   • Healthcare providers
   • Other relevant parties

Regularly assess the POA to ensure that it accurately reflects the principal’s health, finances, and preferences.

Resources for Assistance

• Get POA forms and information on procedures from the Arizona Judicial Branch.
  • Arizona Judicial Branch Forms
• Arizona Attorney General’s Office has resources on elder law and POA.
  • Arizona Attorney General’s Elder Abuse
• Local Legal Aid Organizations provide POA document assistance to seniors.
  • Examples include Community Legal Services and Southern Arizona Legal Aid.

Conclusion

POA is a legal document that safeguards an elder’s best interests. Consult with an elder law attorney to ensure all legal requirements are fulfilled. They can help families write a POA according to the principal’s specific needs.