Q: Do both parties need to be present when a POA form is notarized?
My buddy is incarcerated and wants to sign a power of attorney naming me his agent so I can assist with his financial duties and whatnot. I know they have a notary public that works at the jail he's incarcerated at so that's not a problem. My question is, can I fill out my portion of the form and mail it in to him to have him sign and have it notarized? Or do I need to be present in front of the notary as well?
A: A POA is completed and signed only by the principal (your buddy) before a notary public. There is no portion of the form for the agent (you) to fill out or sign. So you do not need to be present when your buddy fills out and signs the POA.
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