fairfax county how to sign as power of attorney

How do you sign as power of attorney in Virginia?

Tell your agent that if he uses your power of attorney and must sign a document on your behalf, he should sign as follows: __________ (Your name) by __________(Agent's name), agent for _________(your name). It will then be clear that he is signing on your behalf only and is not making himself liable for your debts.

Does a POA need to be notarized in Virginia?

While Virginia does not technically require you to get your POA notarized, notarization is very strongly recommended. Under Virginia law, when you sign your POA in the presence of a notary public, your signature is presumed to be genuine—meaning your POA is more ironclad.

Does a Virginia power of attorney need to be witnessed?

Sign your form and follow Virginia's witness requirements You must sign your power of attorney or direct another person in your presence to sign your name for you if you are physically unable to sign. You do not need witnesses, but you should have it notarized by a notary public.

Does Virginia have a statutory power of attorney?

Virginia has adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act, Va Code § 65.2-1600 et seq. “Power of attorney” means a writing or other record that grants authority to an agent to act in the place of the principal, whether or not the term power of attorney is used.

Can a notary notarize a power of attorney in Virginia?

THE NOTARY'S POWERS - Virginia notaries may notarize powers of attorney and wills. - Virginia notaries are not authorized to certify true copies of birth, death, or marriage certificates.

What is a durable power of attorney in Virginia?

Virginia law treats a power of attorney as durable unless it specifically says it is not. The durable power of attorney allows the person you choose to step in and take care of your financial affairs. Without a power of attorney, no one can represent you unless a court appoints a conservator or guardian.

How long does it take to get power of attorney through the court?

This can take up to 10 working days.

How long does it take to do power of attorney?

How long does it take to get a PoA registered? It usually takes 8 to 10 weeks for The Office of the Public Guardian to register a power of attorney, so long as there are no mistakes on the form. It may take longer if there are issues they want to look into, although this is rare.

Can a family member override a power of attorney?

If the agent is acting improperly, family members can file a petition in court challenging the agent. If the court finds the agent is not acting in the principal's best interest, the court can revoke the power of attorney and appoint a guardian.

Has Virginia adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act?

Private Client Services Update – Virginia Adopts Uniform Power of Attorney Act. The Uniform Power of Attorney Act ('UPOAA' or 'the Act') was reenacted by the 2010 Session of the General Assembly. The 2009 legislation mandated this before it could become effective.

Who makes medical decisions if there is no power of attorney Virginia?

In the event of medical incapacitation, usually a family member will be called upon to make any important decisions in the absence of a power of attorney. In this situation, difficulties can arise if there is more than one family member and they differ on the course of medical action.

Who makes decisions if no power of attorney?

If you lose your mental capacity at the time a decision needs to be made, and you haven't granted powers of attorney to anyone (or you did appoint attorneys, but they can no longer act for you), then the court can appoint someone to be your deputy.

Is an out of state power of attorney valid in Virginia?

Virginia will recognize powers of attorneys created outside of Virginia provided the power of attorney was valid in the state of creation. Photocopies and electronically transmitted copies will have the same force and effect as the original.

Can a family member override a power of attorney?

If the agent is acting improperly, family members can file a petition in court challenging the agent. If the court finds the agent is not acting in the principal's best interest, the court can revoke the power of attorney and appoint a guardian.

Has Virginia adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act?

Private Client Services Update – Virginia Adopts Uniform Power of Attorney Act. The Uniform Power of Attorney Act ('UPOAA' or 'the Act') was reenacted by the 2010 Session of the General Assembly. The 2009 legislation mandated this before it could become effective.

How do I give someone power of attorney?

The Power of Attorney needs to be signed by the principal, giving the agent authority to act on his/her behalf. The principal's signature has to be co-signed by at least one witness to confirm that it was indeed the principal signing the document.

What is Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office?

The Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office serves our community by keeping it safe, reflecting its values, and ensuring justice is done. One of the ways in which the Office achieves these goals is by handling a notably wider array of cases than is statutorily required.

Who is the attorney for Fairfax County?

Steve Descano was sworn in as the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax in January 2020. He is a veteran, former federal prosecutor, husband, and father.

How to sign a POA?

Step 1: Bring Your Power of Attorney Agreement and ID. When signing as a POA, you need to bring the original power of attorney form to the meeting — even if you’ve already registered a copy of the document with the institution (such as a bank, financial agency, or a government institution). You also need to bring government-issued photo ...

What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a document that creates a legally binding agreement between two parties — a principal and an attorney-in-fact. A power of attorney form grants an attorney-in-fact the right to: access the principal’s financial accounts. sign legal documents on the principal’s behalf. manage the principal’s legal and business affairs.

What happens if a loved one suspects an agent isn't acting in the principal's best interests?

If loved ones suspect an agent isn’t acting in the principal’s best interests, they can take steps to override the power of attorney designation.

How to act as an attorney in fact?

access the principal’s financial accounts. sign legal documents on the principal’s behalf. manage the principal’s legal and business affairs. As an attorney-in-fact, you must act in the principal’s best interest, and adhere to their wishes when signing documents for them. This means doing what the principal would want you to do, no matter what.

Can you sign a contract on the principal's behalf?

Failing to indicate that you’re signing on the principal’s behalf can invalidate the agreement, and even lead to civil or criminal lawsuits.

Do you use the principal's name?

And remember to use the principal’s full legal name. If you see their name listed on any pre-existing paperwork at the institution, be sure to replicate its format.

Can you sign a power of attorney?

When someone gives you power of attorney (POA), you’re legally able to sign legal documents on their behalf if necessary. However, signing as power of attorney isn’t as simple as writing down both of your names. For a power of attorney signature to be valid, you must take the proper steps.

How to sign a power of attorney?

To sign as a power of attorney, start by signing the principal's full legal name. If you're dealing with a financial account, sign their name the same way it's listed on the account. Next, write the word "by" on the line below the principal's name and sign your own name.

When does a POA go into effect?

Your POA agreement should specify exactly when the POA will go into effect, how long it will last, and what duties and powers the agent has under the agreement. Some POA agreements go into effect when signed, while others are designed to go into effect only when a specified event happens.

What does POA mean?

When someone gives you power of attorney (POA) in the United States, it means you have the authority to access their financial accounts and sign financial or legal documents on their behalf. POA is given using a legal POA document that has been drafted and executed according to your state's law.

How to tell if you need to notarize a document?

If you're using a form or template, look to see if there is space at the bottom for witness signatures or a notary seal. This will tell you whether you need to have the document notarized, or bring additional witnesses.

What does it mean to be an attorney in fact?

When the document goes into effect, you become that person's attorney in fact, which means you act as their agent. Generally, to sign documents in this capacity, you will sign the principal's name first, then your name with the designation "attorney in fact" or "power of attorney.". Steps.

What happens if you don't check a POA?

This means if you don't check anything, the agent won't have any powers.

How to sign a principal's name?

Indicate your authority to sign. Following your name, you need to add a word or phrase that shows how you have the power to legally sign the principal's name for them. Without this, your signature won't be binding. Typically you'll use the phrase "attorney in fact" or "power of attorney."

Why do people sign powers of attorney?

People also commonly sign health care powers of attorney to give someone else the authority to make medical decisions if they are unable to do so. Powers of attorney have other uses as well.

What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone the authority to sign documents and conduct transactions on another person’s behalf. A person who holds a power of attorney is sometimes called an attorney-in-fact.

What does it mean when you sign a document as an attorney in fact?

When you sign a document as someone’s attorney-in-fact, your signature needs to make it clear that you—not they—are signing the document and that you are acting under the authority of a power of attorney. To understand how this works, let’s suppose your name is Jill Jones and you have power of attorney to act for your friend, Sam Smith.

What happens if you sign a document in your own name without a power of attorney?

If you sign a document in your own name without indicating that you are acting under a power of attorney, you could be held personally responsible for the transaction. If you sign only the principal’s name, you could face criminal or civil penalties for fraud or forgery.

What is a person who holds a power of attorney called?

A person who holds a power of attorney is sometimes called an attorney-in-fact. Many people sign a financial power of attorney, known as a durable power of attorney, to give a friend or family member the power to conduct financial transactions for them if they become incapacitated. People also commonly sign health care powers ...

What happens if you sign only the principal's name?

If you sign only the principal’s name, you could face criminal or civil penalties for fraud or forgery. A power of attorney can be invaluable if you need to manage the affairs of an ailing relative or sign documents on behalf of someone who is unavailable. If you act as attorney-in-fact for someone, make sure you understand your authority ...

When to bring a power of attorney?

Always bring your power of attorney document with you when you transact business on someone else’s behalf and make sure the people you do business with know that you are acting under a power of attorney.

Included Forms

All Fairfax County specific forms and documents listed below are included in your immediate download package:

Special Power of Attorney Form - Fairfax County

Fill in the blank form formatted to comply with all recording and content requirements.

Included Supplemental Documents

The Following Virginia and Fairfax County supplemental forms are included as a courtesy with your order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my forms? Forms are available immediately after submitting payment.

What is the Virginia Special Power of Attorney for the Purchase of Property?

In this form the principle (s) empower (s) an agent to act on the principle's behalf, for the purchase of a real property located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The agent is authorized to execute purchase and finance instruments and other documents associated with the purchase of the described property.

Our Promise

The documents you receive here will meet, or exceed, the Fairfax County recording requirements for formatting. If there's an issue caused by our formatting, we'll make it right and refund your payment.

Save Time and Money

Get your Fairfax County Special Power of Attorney for the Purchase of Property form done right the first time with Deeds.com Uniform Conveyancing Blanks.

How to contact the Zoning Administration Division?

Please contact the Zoning Administration Division at 703-324-1314, TTY 711 or email us.

What are prohibited signs?

Prohibited signs include: Any sign that does not comply with the Sign Ordinance. Moving or windblown signs such as inflatable characters, balloons, or feather flags. Any sign that displays flashing or animated lights. Signs placed on the roof of a building.

What are nonconforming signs?

Given that some of the regulations concerning signs were changed, there are some existing signs that may not meet the current regulations. In certain cases, these signs are considered to be legal nonconforming uses and may remain. When the Board of Supervisors adopted the changes to the Sign Ordinance on March 19, 2019, the following signs were included in the nonconforming provisions: 1 Permanent building-mounted signs and freestanding signs, approved with a building permit and any required, corresponding sign permit 2 Permanent freestanding signs located on property owned by Fairfax County, the Fairfax County Park Authority, or Fairfax County Public Schools 3 Any signs approved by the Board of Supervisors in conjunction with an approved comprehensive sign plan or special exception 4 Any signs approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals in conjunction with an approved special permit 5 Electronic display signs approved with a building permit and any required, corresponding sign permit - except that such signs must comply with the new performance standards found in subsections 7101.1.A (2), (3), and (4)

How tall can a freestanding sign be?

However, only two freestanding signs are allowed at one time, with a maximum height of four feet. Signs displayed in windows of nonresidential land uses. A-frame signs for nonresidential land uses. If you need help identifying the road class for your business or use, please see the 'Contact Us' section below.

How many square feet of signage is allowed per lot?

Depending on the road class that the property is located along, 24 to 32 square feet of signage is allowed per lot.

How many square feet can a yard sign be?

Each lot developed with a residential use is allowed to display up to 12 square feet of signs. However, no single sign can be more than four square feet in size, and the height of any sign is limited to four feet.

What color is the sign on the electronic display?

The background of the sign face of the electronic display cannot be white, off-white, gray, or yellow in color. The electronic display must include a photo cell to control brightness and must automatically dim at sunset.