A Vermont minor (child) power of attorney empowers parents and legal guardians to temporarily give decision-making authority over their children to a trusted individual. This individual (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) ensures the child’s welfare when the parent is absent or otherwise unavailable to make decisions for their child.
Parents may be unavailable due to factors like deployment, imprisonment, or extended travel. When the agent receives their powers, they can make decisions to address the child’s needs as they relate to living arrangements, health care, and education. Vermont doesn’t specify a termination period, so the parent can establish one or revoke the agreement when they no longer need the agent’s help.
Legal Considerations
Statute: Vt. Stat. tit. 14 §§ 4001-4063 – Vermont Uniform Power of Attorney Act.
Where to Record: Recording this document isn’t required.
Signing Requirements: Notary public (Vt. Stat. tit. 14 § 4005).
Length of Validity: No specification in the state’s laws.