An Ohio general power of attorney (GPOA) is a formal document that allows an individual (the principal) to authorize a third party (the attorney-in-fact) to manage their financial affairs, including handling assets, legal documents, and healthcare decisions. This non-durable arrangement ends if the principal becomes incapacitated. It activates upon the principal’s execution or a specified date.
Unlike the durable version, it doesn’t extend beyond the principal’s incapacity, making the choice of a reliable agent crucial for managing and protecting the principal’s interests. For continuous authority during incapacity, a durable power of attorney is recommended.
Laws — Title XIII, Chapter 1337 (Power of Attorney).
Signing Requirements (Ohio Rev. Code § 1337.25) – The principal is required to have their signature officially recognized in the presence of a notary public.
Presumption of Durability (Ohio Rev. Code § 1337.24) – Yes, except if the power of attorney specifies that it is revoked upon the principal’s incapacity.
