Can I resign as Power of Attorney for my mother?

Full question:

A few years ago I was appointed a power of attorney for both health and property for my mother, but would now like to resign as power of attorney and turn it over to my sister, who is listed on the power of attorney document as the alternate power of attorney. To resign, must I do it in writing or can it be done verbally? If I need to do so in writing to make it legal, can I trust an online document I can download for that purpose? If I need a document do I need to have that document notarized or witnessed?

Answer:

An agent may refuse to act on behalf of the principal for any reason. If you are an agent, you can end the power of attorney by resigning in writing. The writing should be notarized, and a copy provided to the principal or their guardian/conservator, the successor agent, and any court that may be involved in the handling of the principal's affairs. It is suggested to file your resignation in your county's public records office to make it official.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

To resign from your role as power of attorney, you should provide a written notice of resignation. This document should ideally be notarized for added legal validity. Make sure to give copies to the principal (the person who granted you power of attorney), the successor agent, and any relevant authorities involved in the principal's affairs.