A Power of Attorney generally involves two parties: the principal and the attorney.
The principal is the individual who created the Power of Attorney and who is allowing another individual to make decisions on their behalf. In some instances, this person will be called the donor.
The attorney is the individual who was appointed by the principal to make decisions for them. This person can be any trusted individual (e.g. a family member, friend, accountant, lawyer, etc.) so long as they are:
- A legal adult
- Of sound mind (meaning they are mentally capable of making decisions and signing legal documents)
As well, an attorney shouldn't be someone who has not been discharged from bankruptcy (meaning they have not yet been released from their legal obligation to repay their debts).
A lawyer may also be involved to review the POA form for legal reasons or to act as the principal's attorney, if the principal chooses them to act on their behalf.