Tuesday 20 December 2011

Florida Powers of Attorney

There was a substantial change in Florida law back on October 1 this year which many are not aware of. Chapter 709 Florida Statutes relates to Powers of Attorney and this was amended to be more like the Uniform Power of Attorney Act ("UPOAA") adopted by many states. New powers of attorney are subject to the Act. A new power of attorney must now always be signed by the principal and by two subscribing witnesses, and be acknowledged by the principal before a notary public. Notably, a photocopy or electronic copy of a power of attorney has the same effect as an original. Springing Powers of Attorney are no longer allowed. A springing Power of Attorney is a
power of attorney that does not come into effect until the principal is deemed incapacitated. General powers are also no longer permitted. Powers of Attorney must be specific. To learn more see http://ping.fm/Jctmg