Powers of Attorney

A Texas durable power of attorney agent is generally not personally responsible for the principal’s debts unless the agent is a party to the debt or acts outside the granted authority.

This article explains Texas durable powers of attorney, compares immediate and springing authority, and discusses agent selection and safeguards against abuse.

Explains that an agent under a Texas durable power of attorney cannot overrule a capable principal's financial decisions, even when the agent believes those decisions are unwise.

Documents a 2020 program that offered free Texas medical powers of attorney to essential workers and explains the role of a health care agent during incapacity.

Explains that a Texas medical power of attorney is valid when signed before either a notary or two qualified witnesses, and identifies witness restrictions.

A Texas Medical Power of Attorney lets you appoint a trusted person, such as a niece or friend, to make healthcare decisions instead of your children.

Under Texas law, witnesses to a medical power of attorney must be competent adults who meet specific qualifications, unless the document is notarized instead.

The article explains when a person may refuse to accept a durable power of attorney in Texas and the required written notice of the refusal.

The article explains 2017 changes to the Durable Powers of Attorney statute, including financial institution acceptance, agent authority, oversight proceedings, gifting limits, and a 2018 medical Power of Attorney form.