[Genie13109]

I signed a power of attourney so my wife could sign for me for a house in 1995. In 1999 we refinanced, together, the same loan. In 2005, my wife re-financed without my knowledge and in Feb. 2007 SOLD our house that we currently live in to someone else. How long does a power of attourney last? Was this legal?

Thank you

[N0help4u]

Yes it was legal power of attorney doesn't have any time frame.
Yes it was legal for her to sell the house since she DID HAVE Power of Attorney.
Why did you have to give her power of attorney? Why couldn't you sign for the house yourself?
You need to see what you can do to take her power of attorney away from her before she does more damage.

, the power of attorney document can be changed, amended, or revoked at any time you wish. If you decide to make a change or revoke your power of attorney document, you should instruct the Agent to return all copies of it to you. In addition, you should notify all persons or entities (for example, banks, stockbrokers, etc.) who may have any dealings with your Agent of change, amendment, or revocation. The revocation must be in writing, and should be sent to all parties with whom the Agent may have contact on your behalf. An example of a written revocation of a power of attorney document is given after this chapter. -->

Guide for Elders, Ch. 2: Why Do I Need a Power of Attorney Document?

[twinkiedooter]

Generally it is a good idea when using a power of attorney to have a specific time frame or transaction mentioned in the power of attorney wording of the document you sign. Had you specifically worded the power of attorney for the sale of the home at (address) on such and such a date you would have then had the power of attorney null and void after that particular transaction. It is never a good idea to just give someone a blanket power of attorney like you did unless you were extremely elderly or on death's door without some provisos in it.

[ebaines]

Many estate attorneys recommend that husbands and wives sign and file away a power or attorney document so that in case either is incapacitated the other can handle financial matters without having to go through protracted and expensive legal maneuvers. This may be a good idea for many couples, but it's a two-edged sword, and obviously requires that both parties have utter confidence and trust in each other. In my opinion one party refinancing a loan without the knowledge of the other violates that trust. If you can no longer trust your wife in these matters, by all means you must terminate the power of attorney.