Written by Benjamin Kingsley
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.
Yes, it is possible for multiple people to have power of attorney (POA) over someone. This arrangement is often referred to as “co-agents” or “joint agents.” When establishing multiple agents, it’s crucial to carefully consider the implications and clearly define how the agents will work together.
There are generally two ways to structure a power of attorney with multiple agents:
1. Joint Power of Attorney: In this arrangement, all named agents must act together and agree on decisions. This can provide a system of checks and balances but may also lead to delays or conflicts if the agents disagree.
2. Several Power of Attorney: Here, each agent can act independently. This can be more efficient but may lead to confusion or contradictory actions if the agents don’t communicate effectively.
When setting up a multiple-agent POA, it’s essential to clearly specify in the document whether the agents have joint or several authority. Additionally, consider including provisions for resolving disputes between agents and outlining specific areas of responsibility for each agent if you want to divide duties.
It’s also worth noting that some financial institutions or healthcare providers may be hesitant to work with multiple agents due to potential liability concerns. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with relevant parties before finalizing a multiple-agent POA arrangement.
Do you have questions about or need assistance with a power of attorney? Please click here to email us at contact@legalandme.com.
Do you need a power of attorney form? We make a do-it-yourself power of attorney: finance power of attorney or healthcare power of attorney.