What Is an Arkansas Minor (Child) Power of Attorney?
An Arkansas minor (child) power of attorney lets a parent delegate temporary legal authority to a trusted agent to care for the child. The parent dictates the terms in the AR minor POA form. In many cases, the agent is allowed to decide on matters relating to the child’s health care and education.
Parents in Arkansas use this form to prepare for situations when they cannot serve as their child’s decision-maker. If they anticipate being unavailable due to a health condition, military service, or work travel, an Arkansas minor POA can help them plan.
Note that an Arkansas minor power of attorney does not override parental rights. The parents keep their rights, and no permanent change in custody occurs. If you want to grant temporary guardianship of your child in Arkansas, you must file a Petition for Appointment of Guardian in the appropriate county circuit court (AR Code § 28-65-222).
Financial POA vs Minor POA in Arkansas
Under a financial POA in Arkansas, an appointed agent can use the principal’s finances to fulfill the child’s needs (AR Code § 28-68-213). However, an Arkansas minor power of attorney gives the agent the legal right to make non-financial parental decisions.
Signing Requirements for a Minor Power of Attorney in Arkansas
The principal must sign a power of attorney for a minor in Arkansas before a notary public (AR Code § 28-68-105). No additional witnesses are required. You can have a notary public complete their acknowledgment with Legal Templates’s notary acknowledgment form.
How Long Does an Arkansas Minor Power of Attorney Last?
Arkansas law does not define a maximum period for a minor power of attorney. It’s often only valid for six months to one year, as a document that lasts longer than this standard period may not be enforceable. It may also be set to expire upon a parent’s known return from overseas or another event where the parent once again becomes available to act for the child.
Revoke your Arkansas child power of attorney at any point with a power of attorney revocation form.
Sample Arkansas Minor Power of Attorney
View an example of an Arkansas minor power of attorney to see how to structure yours so it’s legally enforceable. Then, create your own using our guided form and download a final copy in PDF or Word format. Distribute copies as needed to parties who need proof on file, including the child’s health care provider and school.
