Q. What if the third party will not accept the Power of Attorney?
A. If the Power of Attorney was lawfully executed and it has not been revoked, suspended or terminated, third parties may be forced to honor the document. Due to changes in the law, Durable Powers of Attorney executed on or after October 1, 1995, are provided special enforcement authorizations. An older document may be enforced as well. Under some circumstances, if the third party’s refusal to honor the Durable Power of Attorney causes damage, the third party may be liable for those damages and even attorney’s fees and court costs. Even mere delay may cause damage and this too may be actionable. It is reasonable, however, for the third party to have the time to consult with a lawyer about the Power of Attorney. Banks will often send the Power of Attorney to their legal department for approval. Delay for more than a short period may be unreasonable. Upon refusal or unreasonable delay, consult an attorney.
(Source: Florida Bar's Consumer Pamphlet: Florida Powers of Attorney, pg7-8. A copy can be viewed/downloaded at http://www.pawnotary.com/documents/Florida%20Powers%20of%20Attorney.pdf) |
