Powers of attorney.

A power of attorney gives someone authority to act for you. That authority can be broad, which is the whole point and the whole risk.

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Naming someone to act on your behalf.

Name trusted decision-makers to handle financial and legal matters if you cannot act for yourself.

  • Goals

    Financial and legal decision-making authority

  • Documents

    Choosing the person and any successors

  • Decision-makers

    The scope of powers granted

  • Beneficiaries

    When the authority begins and ends

  • Coordination

    Coordination with the rest of a plan

A few general points about powers of attorney.

General information about how these documents commonly work, not advice about any individual situation.

  1. The authority can be significant

    An agent may be able to act across financial and legal matters. Both the document and the person deserve careful consideration.

  2. Scope is a choice

    The powers granted are defined by the document. They can be broad or narrow depending on what is intended.

  3. Successors are worth naming

    A first choice may be unavailable when the document is needed. Naming who follows avoids a gap.

  4. It is separate from healthcare decisions

    Financial authority and healthcare decision-making are generally addressed in different documents.

Questions about powers of attorney.

These answers explain agent authority, timing, scope, selection, third-party acceptance, and changes under Florida law.

What does a financial power of attorney do?

It authorizes an agent to perform the legal and financial acts described in the document on the principal’s behalf. The authority can be broad or limited, but certain powers require specific treatment under Florida law.

When does a Florida power of attorney become effective?

A Florida power of attorney is generally effective when properly executed, although the document and limited statutory exceptions must be reviewed. Florida does not generally permit new springing powers of attorney that become effective only upon future incapacity.

How is the agent’s authority defined?

The written document and Florida law define what the agent can do. Banking, real estate, business, trust, beneficiary, gift, and digital-asset powers may require different language or separate authorization.

How should I choose an agent?

Choose someone trustworthy, available, organized, willing to keep records, and able to act under fiduciary duties even when family members disagree. Naming qualified successors can reduce the risk of a gap if the first person cannot act.

Will a bank or other third party accept the document?

Florida law addresses acceptance and rejection, but an institution may request identification, an affidavit, an opinion of counsel, or another permitted confirmation. Reviewing the document before it is needed and coordinating with key institutions can expose practical issues.

Can a power of attorney be changed or revoked?

A principal who has legal capacity can generally revoke the authority and create a new document. Notice should be delivered to the agent and relevant institutions, and older copies should be addressed so third parties are not relying on outdated authority.

Client experiences.

Mary and her team were excellent from start to finish! Processes and clear expectations set from the first phone call. Real life past case experiences and advice without pushing your decisions one way or the other. Once you decide together the best course of action, Yali and Beatriz step in to handle details under the watchful guide of Mary. I was keep informed throughout the process while they worked behind the scenes. I had complete faith that no matter the outcome, they were on the ball! Honesty, integrity, professionalism, knowledge, dedication, and care led to the best possible outcome for my case. Thank you, Colina Law, for all your efforts! I hope I never need you again haha... but I surely will refer you to anyone who may. For those reading.... estate planning is now being offered as well so get your affairs in order.... because accidents happen.Gina RussenGoogle Review
I've been to several law firms and have had to deal with different lawyers and professionals in the field. I suppose that as an entrepreneur, it's part of the game, where problems are inevitable. But I've never experienced the level of follow-up and commitment, both personally and to my case in general, that I received from this great law firm, Colina Law. 100% recommended. Professionalism, one-on-one follow-up, transparency, and outstanding service. Thank you for your excellent work.Iosvany Relova reinosoGoogle Review
I am not one to ask for help I fancy myself wonder woman and take care of everything on my own. Then suddenly within seconds, my life changed. The actions of another driver disrupted my life completely. I needed help. I did not have the physical ability or time to deal with insurance companies. I have an autistic son who has severe medical issues, and I was caring for my mother who passed away two Months after the accident. I did not have the physical or emotional strength to do battle with the insurance companies. Thankfully I was Referred to Mary Colina and once I spoke with her, I knew everything would be okay. She instantly helped me resolve immediate issues allowing me to concentrate on taking care of my health and my family. I cannot say enough about the team she has assembled at the Colina Law group. The team is communicative, supportive, and most importantly caring. I can’t thank them enough for fighting for me and having my back during such a difficult time. Things will never be the same but I am thankful more than they could ever know for all they have done! Thank you!Lana CurranGoogle Review
Without a doubt, the best representation I've ever had in my life. Thank you so much for helping me with my case.victor manuel lopez cumaresGoogle Review
I want to express my deepest appreciation to Colina Law, Mary, and her staff who represented me during my car accident case. They did an outstanding job from start to finish. Their professionalism, constant communication, and genuine care made a difficult situation so much easier to navigate. They always kept me informed, answered my questions promptly, and ensured I felt supported throughout the entire process. Their dedication and attention to detail truly set them apart. I am extremely grateful for their hard work and highly recommend this team to anyone in need of reliable, compassionate, and skilled legal representation. For our Latino community! COLINA LAW, the best lawyer in all of Southwest Florida! If you are looking for legal representation, go to Mary Colina and her team. They did an exceptional job from beginning to end. Their professionalism, constant communication, and genuine concern made a difficult situation much more bearable. They always kept me informed, answered my questions promptly, and made sure I felt supported throughout the entire process. Their dedication and attention to detail truly set them apart. I am extremely grateful for their hard work and highly recommend this team to anyone needing reliable, compassionate, and expert legal representation. Thank you so much!Iracema MichelicheGoogle Review
I had the pleasure of working with Beatriz Thomas at Colina Law for the closing of my property sale. Beatriz was extremely professional, prompt, and really made the process easy from start to finish. She handled all communication with ease between the title company and real estate agents. I would recommend this law firm to handle your real estate closing needs!Mallory HolmesGoogle Review

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