California Limited (Special) Power of Attorney Form

The California limited (special) power of attorney form allows the Principal to give limited and specific powers to the Agent in question, as opposed to a general power of attorney in which the Agent would have a much broader power over the affairs of the Principal.

It should be noted that in order for the document to be effective in accordance with CA Prob Code § 4121, it must contain the date of execution, it must be signed by the Principal, and it must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public OR two (2) witnesses.

How to Write

Step 1 – Begin by downloading the form and entering the following information into the first paragraph:

  • Enter the name and physical address of the principal in the first blank line
  • In the second line, enter the name and physical address of the named Attorney in Fact/Agent

Step 2 – The principal shall, as specifically as possible, write the services he/she would like the Attorney in Fact/Agent to perform. If more room is required, use an added sheet and attach it to this form

Step 3 – In the third paragraph read the paragraph and then enter the following:

  • Enter the period of time in which the power of attorney will be in effect
  • Enter the date in which the form will become effective
  • Enter the date in which the form will expire

Step 4 – A notary public must be present in order to witness the signatures of the Principal and the Attorney in Fact/Agent. Once you’re both before the notary:

  • The notary will complete the required information
  • On the two unmarked lines, enter the signature of two adult witnesses
  • The notary will then affix their seal to the document
  • The notary will hand the notarized document to the principal
  • Make copies of the document for the records of both the Principal and the Attorney in Fact’s records