Firm Logo
Call for a Free Consultation215-486-0123

Philadelphia Power of Attorney

The Importance of a Power of Attorney

When are you considering estate planning tools and documents you need to create, it is critical to learn more about powers of attorney and how these documents can provide reassurance in the event that you become incapacitated and unable to make important financial or health care decisions on your own. There are different types of power of attorney (POA) documents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and our firm can work with you to craft the POAs that are beneficial to you and to your family. If you have questions or concerns, or if you would like to get started with a Philadelphia power of attorney, do not hesitate to get in touch with the dedicated team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim today for assistance.

What is a Power of Attorney in Philadelphia, PA?

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives another person authority to make certain decisions for you on your behalf. Depending upon the type of power of attorney, and the terms contained within the document, a POA can give another person very broad authority to make decisions on your behalf or very limited authority to do so. A power of attorney can be temporary for a specific duration of time, it can apply to a single event, or it can last until a person’s death.

Many powers of attorney are structured so that your agent or attorney-in-fact (the person with authority to make certain decisions on your behalf) has the power to make those decisions if you become incapacitated and unable to make those decisions yourself.

Understanding Types of POAs in Philadelphia

There are different types of powers of attorney in Pennsylvania, and a Philadelphia estate planning lawyer can discuss the differences with you. In general, the following are types of powers of attorney you should know about:

  • Durable power of attorney: This is not a specific type of power of attorney, but rather a term that refers to the duration of the power of attorney. With a durable power of attorney, the agent or attorney-in-fact has the ability to make decisions for the principal (you, or the person executing the power of attorney document) if the principal becomes incapacitated. In other words, a durable power of attorney is one that lasts beyond incapacitation and can even take effect only once the principal becomes incapacitated.
  • Health care power of attorney: This is a particular kind of POA under Pennsylvania law in which a principal names another person to make health care decisions on his or her behalf in the event of incapacitation.
  • Financial power of attorney: This is a kind of POA in which a principal names another person to make financial decisions on his or her behalf, such as the ability to access bank accounts, to pay bills, and to handle other types of financial matters. A financial power of attorney can take effect immediately, or it can become effective once a person becomes incapacitated.

Contact our Firm for Philadelphia Power of Attorney Matters

If you need assistance with a power of attorney, one of our Philadelphia estate planning lawyers can help.

Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim for more information.

Notable Case Results

Always Pursing the Best Possible Outcome

Assault Injury

$1 Million

Tractor-Trailer Accident

$10 Million

Bicycle Accident

$4.8 Million

1 / 4
SEE MORE RESULTS

In the Media

Throughout the years, our firm and our individual attorneys have been recognized in both local and national media for our extensive legal knowledge, experience, and record of success. Our attorneys frequently appear in the media to provide insights and information on various legal matters, including high-profile cases.

    1 / 2

Choosing the Right Firm Can Make All the Difference

  • Unrivaled Record of SuccessWe have won tens of millions of dollars for injured victims, and have achieved countless "not guilty" verdicts for clients faced with criminal charges.
  • No Challenge too BigOur firm has handled some of the biggest cases in country, including representing the President of the United States.
  • Personalized RepresentationWe understand that every case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach based on the facts of the case and the needs of our client.
  • Uncompromising PassionOur competitive nature is one of our strongest qualities. You can be confident that no other firm will outwork our team.
  • Holistic ApproachNot only do we want to excel legally for the client, but we also want to make sure we are strengthening their mind, body and spirt.
  • Supporting the CommunityOur team engages in many community events and regularly donates time and resources to many charitable organizations in Philadelphia.

Talk to Our Experienced Team

Home to Philadelphia’s most accomplished attorneys, van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim pairs diverse practice experience with a passion-driven, comprehensive law practice—all for the client’s benefit.

CONTACT US
Firm Logo
215-486-0123
Allentown Office609 Hamiltion St,Suite 7Allentown, PA 18101Map & Directions
Philadelphia Office1219 Spruce StPhiladelphia, PA 19107Map & Directions
Montgomery County Office411 Cherry St.Norristown, PA 19401Map & Directions
Follow Us
Make A Payment