With the recent changes in immigration law we are anticipating a significant increase in deportations. Now, just a simple moving violation for an undocumented individual can subject them to deportation. Are you prepared with a power of attorney should this happen to you?
A Power of Attorney (or POA) is a written document that allows a person to choose someone else (a legal adult) to act on their behalf regarding finances, property, business, or a child’s care. This is an invaluable tool for those facing the possibility of deportation or detention.
A POA can grant power to:
- Sign checks on behalf of the principal;
- Access the principal’s bank account;
- Care for minor children;
- Make decisions about a child’s schooling or healthcare;
- Buy and sell property;
- Ship personal property to another country.
It is important that a person being granted the POA be a trusted family member or friend who would be staying behind in the United States, that you would not mind acting on your behalf in such matters.
There are two kinds of POA’s. General POA’s encompass a wide range of powers, and grant the agent the power to do almost anything on behalf of the immigrant. Special POA’s grant the agent the power to do only the specific acts listed in the document. This can still be a wide range of activities, but more institutions, such as banks and schools, are likely to accept special POAs because the permitted acts are clearly specified by the immigrant.
We highly recommended that a POA be drafted proactively to ensure that all aspects of your life are protected in case of deportation or detention.
We are happy to announce that we now offer both General and Special Power of Attorney’s to all current and potential clients. Give us a call at (757) 464-9224 or contact us online to ensure your house is in order should you be deported.
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