Powers of Attorney

Plan for Life’s What-Ifs with Confidence

A power of attorney ensures someone you trust can step in and act on your behalf when you need them most. I help you set it up with clarity and care.

Make Sure Someone Can Step In

If you become injured, ill, or otherwise unable to make decisions, a power of attorney (POA) allows someone you trust to handle your financial or legal matters for you. Without one, your family may need to go through a complicated and expensive court process just to act on your behalf.

At The Law Offices of Robert S. Betnar, I help people throughout Luzerne County and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania prepare powers of attorney that are legally enforceable, personalized, and easy to understand. Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a health concern, I’ll make sure you’re protected.

Types of Powers of Attorney

Durable Financial Power of Attorney

Allows someone you trust to manage your finances, pay bills, and handle legal tasks if you become incapacitated.

Medical Power of Attorney

Gives a designated person the ability to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.

Limited Power of Attorney

Grants authority for specific tasks, like handling a real estate transaction while you’re away.

Springing Power of Attorney

Only becomes active under certain conditions, such as a formal declaration of incapacity.

General vs. Specific POAs

I’ll explain which type gives you the right balance of flexibility and control based on your situation.

Powers of Attorney in Pennsylvania

What You Need to Know

Pennsylvania law has very specific rules about how powers of attorney are created, signed, and enforced. A generic form may not be enough to protect you—or your family—in a real-life emergency.

POAs Must Be Signed & Notarized

In Pennsylvania, powers of attorney must meet strict signing requirements to be considered valid.

A POA Ends at Death

It’s useful for managing your affairs during your lifetime, but it does not replace a will or trust.

Without a POA, Families May Need Guardianship

If you become incapacitated without a POA in place, your loved ones may have to petition the court for authority to act for you.

It’s Not Just for Seniors

Everyone 18 and older should consider having a power of attorney in place in case of accident or illness.

Questions About Powers of Attorney?

I've Got Answers

  • Why is a power of attorney important?

    A power of attorney allows you to choose who will handle your affairs if you can’t do so yourself. Without one, your family may have to go through court proceedings to be given that authority, which can be time-consuming and costly. It’s a simple way to protect your interests and ensure your wishes are honored. Having this document in place offers peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

  • Can I still make my own decisions after signing a power of attorney?

    Yes, as long as you are mentally competent, you continue to have full control over your affairs. A power of attorney simply allows someone else to act on your behalf if needed—it does not take away your rights. You can also revoke or change the document at any time while you are still legally capable. It’s a flexible planning tool, not a loss of control.

  • Who should I name as my agent under a power of attorney?

    The person you name should be someone you trust deeply—typically a spouse, adult child, or close friend. They’ll have access to sensitive information and the authority to act for you, so responsibility is key. I can help you consider your options and discuss the duties involved with your chosen agent. Clear documentation helps avoid future confusion or disputes.

  • Can I have more than one power of attorney?

    Yes. You can create multiple POAs for different roles—for example, one for finances and another for medical decisions. You can also name co-agents or backups if you’d like added protection. I’ll help you create documents that work together without creating overlap or legal confusion. Having a coordinated plan is especially helpful in emergencies.

  • Do I need a lawyer to create a power of attorney in Pennsylvania?

    While basic forms exist online, they often don’t meet Pennsylvania’s legal standards or cover the unique details of your situation. A power of attorney prepared by an experienced estate planning attorney will be tailored to your needs and fully enforceable under state law. This helps avoid the risk of rejection by banks, hospitals, or courts when it matters most. I make the process quick, affordable, and stress-free.