A power of attorney is a legal document by which you authorize someone else to act for you.

Overview

To be effective in Connecticut, the power of attorney must be signed and dated by you in the presence of two witnesses, who also sign the document.  The signing of the document by you and the two witnesses must be done in the presence of a notary public, a Connecticut attorney, a judge, clerk of the court or town clerk, or one of certain other persons.  That person also signs, dates, records where the signing occurred, and that you "acknowledged" that signing was your free act and deed.  If a notary public is used, a seal is also stamped or affixed to the document. 

A power of attorney can not be used in Connecticut to make gifts unless that power is specifically mentioned in the document.  A power of attorney can only be used during your lifetime.  What a  power of attorney document should say and how it should be used are discussed in this section.

• Connecticut law on accountings by attorneys-in-fact
• Frequently Asked Questions about Powers of Attorney in Connecticut
• Connecticut Statutes and Public Act (Sections 1-2 & 18-21) regarding Statutory Short Form Power of Attorney
• Statutory Short Form Power of Attorney form with instructions
• Connecticut law regarding a Durable Power of Attorney
• Durable Power of Attorney form with instructions
• Connecticut law on Durable Power of Attorney bank accounts
• Revocation of Power of Attorney form with instructions
• Connecticut law regarding a "Springing" Power of Attorney
• Extra provisions authorizing gifts