Q: If I have poa of a friend who's mentally disabled can I speak for her in court for eviction?
She is unable to speak without trailing off on other subjects and not making sense.
A:
You may be able to speak, but the Court will likely still want her to give an accounting as well. As POA you usually have the ability to hire an attorney for her if needed. An attorney usually DOES speak on behalf of the Client. Alternatively, you could petition the Probate Court for a temporary guardianship of your friend. That would allow you to speak on her behalf. Ultimately, it's a more complex question than you may think. It may benefit you and her to sit down with an attorney to review the situation and advise you of the best course of action.
Best of luck.
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