Frequently Asked Questions about Estate Planning  What is a
Durable Power of Attorney?  A power of attorney is a document
you sign while competent that authorizes another person to act
on your behalf. A Durable Power of Attorney allows that person,
known as your agent, to act even if you later become
incapacitated. A durable power can take effect when you sign it
or after some triggering event, such as when two physicians
confirm that you are not capable of handling your affairs.  Be
sure to name someone you absolutely trust to follow your wishes
and handle your finances honestly.  What can an agent do?  Your
agent may be able to sign legal documents in your place, buy and
sell real estate for you, pay your bills, and take other
financial actions on your behalf, depending on what you specify
in the document.  What about health care decisions?  State law
allows you to create a durable Health Care Surrogate Designation
that gives your agent the authority to make health care
decisions for you if and when you are