Who is an Attorney-in-Fact?

An Attorney-in-Fact is an individual who is specifically appointed to act on behalf of another person through a legal document known as a power of attorney. This authorization allows the Attorney-in-Fact to make decisions and perform acts that the principal (the person granting the power) would be able to do themselves. This role is important in various situations, such as managing financial affairs, making medical decisions, or handling legal matters when the principal is unable to do so.

The essential aspect of this designation is that it involves a direct granting of authority from one person to another, establishing a trusted relationship where the Attorney-in-Fact is expected to act in the best interests of the principal. This is distinct from the other choices, which involve providing legal services or advice, but do not inherently include the specific delegation of authority that characterizes the role of an Attorney-in-Fact.