Agency is a relationship based on an agreement authorizing one person, the agent, to act for another, the principal. For example an agent may negotiate and make contracts with third persons on behalf of the principal. Actions of an agent can obligate the principal to third persons. Actions of an agent may also give a principal rights against third persons.
An agency can be created for the purpose of doing almost any act the principal could do. However, there are some acts that must be done in person and cannot be done by an agent. Examples would be: testifying in court for another individual, making a will, and voting.
A general agent is authorized by the principal to transact all the affairs of a particular kind of business. For example, a person appointed as manager of a store is a general agent.
A special agent is authorized by the principal to handle a particular business transaction or perform a specific act. For example, a specific power of attorney appointing an agent (attorney-in-fact) to sell a particular piece of real estate or a certain car would be the appointment of a special agent.
A universal agent is authorized by the principal to do any act that can be delegated to a representative. An example would be giving a person a general power of attorney. This form is such a general power of attorney.
California General Power of Attorney is a legally binding document that grants someone, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to make financial, legal, and business decisions on behalf of another person, called the principal. This type of power of attorney is considered "general" because it provides broad powers to the agent, allowing them to act in various matters on behalf of the principal. The California General Power of Attorney enables the agent to handle and manage the principal's real estate, finances, investments, banking transactions, government benefits, insurance policies, contracts, and other legal matters. The agent can also handle tax-related issues, pursue litigation, and deal with personal and family maintenance. While the California General Power of Attorney gives the agent extensive powers, there are certain limitations to protect the principal's interests. The agent is expected to act in the principal's best interests and make decisions in a responsible and trustworthy manner. It's important to note that there are different types of California General Power of Attorney, tailored to specific needs and circumstances. These include: 1. Durable General Power of Attorney: This type of power of attorney remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated or mentally incompetent. It allows the agent to continue making decisions on behalf of the principal during such circumstances. 2. Springing General Power of Attorney: A springing power of attorney becomes effective only when a specified condition is met, usually the incapacity or disability of the principal. It provides a safeguard for the principal, ensuring that their powers are transferred to the agent only when necessary. 3. Limited General Power of Attorney: This version of the general power of attorney grants the agent authority to make decisions and act on behalf of the principal for a specific duration or in specific circumstances. It can be tailored to cover a singular transaction or a limited scope of responsibilities. 4. Medical Power of Attorney: Although not specifically a "general" power of attorney, it is worth mentioning. A medical power of attorney grants the agent the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal when they are unable to do so themselves. Creating a California General Power of Attorney requires the principal to be of sound mind and able to understand the nature and consequences of granting such powers. It is advised to consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with all state laws and to draft a comprehensive and personalized power of attorney document suitable for specific needs and goals.California General Power of Attorney is a legally binding document that grants someone, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to make financial, legal, and business decisions on behalf of another person, called the principal. This type of power of attorney is considered "general" because it provides broad powers to the agent, allowing them to act in various matters on behalf of the principal. The California General Power of Attorney enables the agent to handle and manage the principal's real estate, finances, investments, banking transactions, government benefits, insurance policies, contracts, and other legal matters. The agent can also handle tax-related issues, pursue litigation, and deal with personal and family maintenance. While the California General Power of Attorney gives the agent extensive powers, there are certain limitations to protect the principal's interests. The agent is expected to act in the principal's best interests and make decisions in a responsible and trustworthy manner. It's important to note that there are different types of California General Power of Attorney, tailored to specific needs and circumstances. These include: 1. Durable General Power of Attorney: This type of power of attorney remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated or mentally incompetent. It allows the agent to continue making decisions on behalf of the principal during such circumstances. 2. Springing General Power of Attorney: A springing power of attorney becomes effective only when a specified condition is met, usually the incapacity or disability of the principal. It provides a safeguard for the principal, ensuring that their powers are transferred to the agent only when necessary. 3. Limited General Power of Attorney: This version of the general power of attorney grants the agent authority to make decisions and act on behalf of the principal for a specific duration or in specific circumstances. It can be tailored to cover a singular transaction or a limited scope of responsibilities. 4. Medical Power of Attorney: Although not specifically a "general" power of attorney, it is worth mentioning. A medical power of attorney grants the agent the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the principal when they are unable to do so themselves. Creating a California General Power of Attorney requires the principal to be of sound mind and able to understand the nature and consequences of granting such powers. It is advised to consult with a legal professional to ensure compliance with all state laws and to draft a comprehensive and personalized power of attorney document suitable for specific needs and goals.