A power of attorney (POA) is a written document that allows a person (who will be called the “principal” in the POA) to choose someone else (who will be called the “agent” in the POA) to act on his or her behalf with respect to finances, business, or a child’s care. A POA is especially useful for people facing deportation or detention who simply may not have the time to get everything done before leaving the country or getting detained. For example, a POA can give an agent the power to sign checks from your bank account, make decisions about your child’s schooling and healthcare, or use your money to buy or sell major items like a car.
While the term “power of attorney” might sound like something related to an attorney, such as an immigration attorney, it is not. It is simply a legal term used for the document that gives one person the legal right to act on behalf of another. Neither person needs to be an attorney. However, consulting with an attorney, where possible, can help you ensure the POA is effective and that the powers granted by the POA match your wishes.