Power of Attorney in Maryland
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Maryland requires notarization and recognizes durable powers of attorney that survive incapacity if properly executed.
How Maryland treats Power of Attorney
Maryland law requires powers of attorney to be notarized to be valid and enforceable. The state recognizes durable powers of attorney that continue after the principal's incapacity, provided the document explicitly states this intent. Maryland also permits healthcare powers of attorney under separate healthcare decision-making statutes, distinct from financial powers of attorney.
The general definition of Power of Attorney
A legal document authorizing someone to act on your behalf in financial or medical decisions.
A power of attorney is a document you sign giving another person (called an agent or attorney-in-fact) the authority to make decisions and sign documents for you. You can make it broad (covering all financial matters) or narrow (only for selling a specific property). It takes effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated, depending on what you choose.
Read the full Power of Attorney entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.