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.
Falsely claiming power of attorney is a serious legal matter that can have significant consequences. When an individual wrongfully asserts that they have power of attorney over another person’s affairs, they are essentially committing fraud and potentially violating several laws.
If someone falsely claims power of attorney, the following legal implications may arise:
1. Criminal charges: Depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances, the person making the false claim could face criminal charges such as fraud, forgery, or identity theft. These charges can result in fines, probation, or even imprisonment.
2. Civil liability: The individual falsely claiming power of attorney may be subject to civil lawsuits from the person whose rights were infringed upon or from third parties who relied on the false representation. These lawsuits could seek damages for financial losses, emotional distress, or other harm caused by the fraudulent actions.
3. Nullification of actions: Any decisions or transactions made by the person falsely claiming power of attorney would likely be considered null and void. This could lead to complex legal proceedings to unravel and correct any actions taken under the false authority.
4. Professional consequences: If the person making the false claim is a professional, such as a lawyer or financial advisor, they may face disciplinary action from their regulatory bodies, potentially resulting in the loss of their professional license.
It is important for individuals to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of any power of attorney claims. Those who suspect someone is falsely claiming power of attorney should immediately report the matter to the appropriate authorities, such as local law enforcement or adult protective services. Additionally, seeking legal counsel from an experienced attorney can help protect the rights of the affected individual and navigate the complex legal process of addressing the false claim.
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.