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durable power of attorney

(DER-uh-bul POW-er ... uh-TER-nee)

A legal document that gives one person (such as a spouse, relative, friend, or lawyer) the authority to make medical, legal, or financial decisions for another person. A durable power of attorney may go into effect right away or when the person who grants it is no longer able to make decisions for themself, depending on how it is written. In most cases, a durable power of attorney remains in effect until the person who grants it dies or cancels it. It does not need to be renewed over time. Also called DPA.

durable power of attorney

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