If you had to be away at the time of an important transaction, or if you suddenly became incapacitated, who would act in your place? Fortunately, there is a document that lets you name someone to act for you in situations like these.  It is a power of attorney.

There are different kinds of powers of attorney. A standard power of attorney lets you name someone to handle business affairs. It ends when you die, become incapacitated or on a set date.

A durable power of attorney is like a standard power of attorney, except it stays valid even if you become incapacitated. Durable powers of attorney are often used to help avoid guardianship proceedings is because someone has already been appointed to handle your affairs, a court won't have to.

A durable power of attorney for health care lets you authorize someone to make your medical decisions if you cannot.

Powers of attorney are valuable planning tools. Laws about them are complex, so seek legal help in making or changing one.