Maryland power of attorney forms legally authorize a third party to act on behalf of an individual. These contracts are often used in the handling of real estate transactions and when authorizing a professional accountant to file the principal’s taxes. The appointee (called an “attorney-in-fact”) is obligated to act in the best interests of the principal and only within the limitations of their contract. Representatives can also be given the authority to make financial and medical decisions for the principal if they become incapacitated due to illness or old age.
Laws – Title 17 (Maryland General and Limited Power of Attorney Act) (§ 17-101 – § 17-204)
A Maryland durable power of attorney form enables individuals to authorize attorneys-in-fact to handle their finances and execute documents on their behalf. The type of contract remains valid if the person being represented becomes mentally incapacitated due to old age, illness, or injury. Therefore, appointing this type of agent ensures that the principal will have someone to take care of their affairs in the event…
A Maryland medical power of attorney form allows residents to name an agent to make healthcare decisions on their behalf in the event of the principal’s incapacitation. Most individuals choose their spouse, relative, or close friend as their agent. State law prohibits the principal from choosing their physician or anyone else professionally involved in their healthcare. The individual selected should be familiar with the principal’s…
A Maryland general power of attorney form allows a person to designate a third party, known as the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact,” to handle any type of monetary-related matter on their behalf. The attorney-in-fact can be anyone that the principal wishes to trust with all their assets. Once the document is signed, the agent will be authorized to conduct matters on the principal’s behalf. If the…
A Maryland limited power of attorney form is used to select a representative to handle a sole financial decision or action. The activity can be anything monetary related and the agent is legally obligated to act in the principal’s best interests. The most common use for the document is to assign an agent to handle a real estate transaction. The form becomes null and void…
A Maryland tax power of attorney form is used by individuals to appoint a representative to handle the filing of their taxes. The tax agent can be any third party, however, individuals will typically choose a certified professional accountant (CPA) or tax attorney. Under state law, the form must be filed by the representative accompanied by a copy of the taxpayer’s government-issued identification. Signing Requirements…
A Maryland motor vehicle power of attorney, otherwise known as “Form VR-470,” lets the owner of a vehicle choose an agent to register, sell, or obtain a certificate of title on their behalf. The agent has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the principal. The form must be signed by the owner and may be used in conjunction with any other…
A Maryland minor power of attorney is a document that authorizes a temporary guardianship arrangement between the parent(s) of a child and an appointed guardian (attorney-in-fact). Once this form is executed, the appointed guardian will have the same powers as a parent would in regard to the child’s education, healthcare, and other important matters that a child cannot be left to make for themselves. The…
A Maryland real estate power of attorney is a legal tool that permits an individual to take control over one’s real estate responsibilities. The person delegating power, known as the “principal,” may restrict the authority of their representative by allowing only basic powers like paying bills or managing leases. The principal may also assign more significant duties such as purchasing a new property or selling currently-owned…
