What is an Agent or Attorney-in-Fact?
Also referred to as an attorney-in-fact, this is the person named under a Power of Attorney to act for another individual. Most individuals should have a Medical Power of Attorney naming an Agent to make medical decisions if they cannot, and a General (Durable) Power of Attorney naming an Agent to handle financial matters if they cannot. The responsibilities of an Agent under a Medical Power of Attorney are similar to a Guardian, and the responsibilities of a Agent under a General Power are similar to a Conservator. The difference is that they are voluntarily appointed under a document, rather than appointed by the court.
