(1) In a power of attorney, a principal may nominate a conservator of the estate or guardian of the person for consideration by the court if protective proceedings for the principal’s estate or person are begun after the principal executes the power of attorney. Except for good cause shown or disqualification, the court shall make its appointment in accordance with the principal’s most recent nomination.

Need help with a review of a power of attorney?
Have it reviewed by a lawyer, get answers to your questions and move forward with confidence.
Connect with a lawyer now

Terms Used In Washington Code 11.125.080

  • Fiduciary: A trustee, executor, or administrator.
  • Guardian: A person legally empowered and charged with the duty of taking care of and managing the property of another person who because of age, intellect, or health, is incapable of managing his (her) own affairs.
  • person: may be construed to include the United States, this state, or any state or territory, or any public or private corporation or limited liability company, as well as an individual. See Washington Code 1.16.080
  • Power of attorney: A written instrument which authorizes one person to act as another's agent or attorney. The power of attorney may be for a definite, specific act, or it may be general in nature. The terms of the written power of attorney may specify when it will expire. If not, the power of attorney usually expires when the person granting it dies. Source: OCC
(2) If, after a principal executes a power of attorney, a court appoints a conservator of the estate or other fiduciary charged with the management of some or all of the principal’s property, the agent is accountable to the fiduciary as well as to the principal. The power of attorney is not terminated and the agent’s authority continues, subject to the provisions of RCW 11.130.335(1) and 11.130.435(4), unless limited, suspended, or terminated by the court.
(3) If, after a principal executes a power of attorney that includes health care decisions, a court appoints a guardian of the person, the agent is accountable to the fiduciary as well as to the principal. The power of attorney is not terminated and the agent’s authority continues, subject to the provisions of RCW 11.130.335(1) and 11.130.435(4), unless limited, suspended, or terminated by the court.

NOTES:

Effective dates2020 c 312: See note following RCW 11.130.915.