A Maine general power of attorney (GPOA) is a legal document allowing a principal to choose someone to have authority over their financial affairs, including their bills and taxes. A principal can grant specific powers or permit a wider scope of financial powers. The principal can establish restrictions and limitations according to their desires.
The principal can terminate this form if they have the proper mental capacity. Because of the non-durable nature of this form, it becomes invalid when a person becomes incapacitated. You can create and sign a durable power of attorney if you want the form to remain valid in the event of your incapacitation.
Laws — MRS Title 18-C, Article 5 (Maine Uniform Power of Attorney Act).
Authority (MRS § 5-931) – An agent with power of attorney can act on the principal’s behalf if the document explicitly gives them the authority. If another instrument or agreement prohibits the authority, the agent won’t have the granted powers.
Signing Requirements (MRS § 5-905) – The principal must sign this document in the presence of a notary public to validate it.
Presumption of Durability (MRS § 5-904) – State law defines a power of attorney as durable unless the agreement states otherwise.