Power of Attorney in France

A power of attorney is a legal document that lets someone you choose act for you. This service helps people who need someone to handle matters in the country for them, for example because they live abroad, have property or money matters there, or have little time. It can also suit people who want their affairs looked after if illness or old age later stops them from doing it themselves.

Who can use it

Nationality does not matter. You must be an adult, usually 18 or over, and able to understand what you are signing at the time.

How it works

• A first talk about what you need and how much authority to give.
• The lawyer writes the document, setting out clearly what your representative may do. It can be in English and in the local language.
• The document is signed before a notary (an official who witnesses and certifies documents), in the country or near where you live.
• Where needed, it is registered with the right official body.
• It then takes effect, and your representative can act for you.