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The Virginia Power of Attorney form is a legal document that allows a person to designate another individual to act as their representative in a certain area. Power of attorney forms come in various forms and allow an individual to be represented in various situations. These situations can range from real estate transactions to critical healthcare decisions. In the state of Virginia, all power of attorney documents must conform to Chapter 16 of the Virginia Code. This code dictates that in regards to Medical Power of Attorney documents, the appointed individual, formally known as the Agent has the legal authority to make decisions on any medical procedure, treatment or intervention to prolong the dying process. This includes feeding and hydration tubes CPR and other emergency services. However, in Virginia, Agents do not have the authority to make decisions on the appointer's (known as the Principal) medication, comfort care, or any other procedure to alleviate pain. These decisions are left in the care of the attending physician.
The Virginia Power of Attorney is a document can be completed in a fair amount of time; however, it is imperative that the information be accurate. The first piece of information that the Principal must provide is their own. This means that the Principal’s full first and last name must be documented, along with his or her full address. Next, the Agent will be appointed by providing his or her full name, address, and contact number. Once the identity of the Agent (and backup agent, if desired) has been provided, the Principal will then describe the powers being conveyed to the Agent. Power of attorney documents come in many forms, and it is imperative that the Agent’s powers have been described, so that the Principal may sign and date the document in the presence of his or her witnesses so that the document may take effect.