When does a general power of attorney (springing) take effect?
Some powers of attorney can be drafted so that they go into effect when signed (e.g. a special power of attorney for a real estate transaction). A “springing” power of attorney does not go into effect unless and until a doctor or doctors certify that you have become incapacitated (the exact specifics of this determination are normally contained in the power of attorney). A springing power of attorney allows you to maintain control over your own affairs until you become incapacitated, when it springs into effect.
