What the rule says
DC adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act effective March 11, 2017, codified at D.C. Code § 21-2601.01 et seq.
Default durability
A DC POA is durable by default — the agent's authority survives the principal's incapacity unless the document expressly states otherwise.
Specific powers
Under DC's UPOAA, certain powers require express authorization (gifts, beneficiary changes, trust modifications, etc.).
Third-party acceptance
DC law provides protections for third parties accepting properly executed POAs.
Execution requirements
A valid DC POA must be:
- Signed by the principal - Acknowledged before a notary public
Healthcare advance directive is separate
DC separates property and healthcare frameworks. Healthcare decisions require a separate DC Health-Care Power of Attorney under D.C. Code § 21-2205 et seq.
What happens without a POA
If a DC resident becomes incapacitated without an executed durable POA, the family must seek conservatorship under D.C. Code § 21-2041 et seq.
What you can do about it
For DC residents:
- Execute a Uniform Power of Attorney. - Acknowledge before a notary. - Specifically enumerate hot powers if needed. - Designate a successor agent. - Coordinate with the Health-Care POA. - Update older POAs.
Who this affects most
DC's POA framework is most consequential for DC adults without executed POAs.