A Minnesota Special Power of Attorney — Form 11— - Pre and Post 2005 Act is a legal document that grants someone, known as the "attorney-in-fact," the authority to act on behalf of another person, also referred to as the "principal," in specific matters or areas of their life. This instrument becomes particularly useful when the principal is unavailable, incapacitated, or unable to handle certain affairs independently. Pre-2005 Act: Before the Minnesota Uniform Power of Attorney Act (2005 Act) was enacted, the Pre-2005 Act governed the creation and execution of a Special Power of Attorney. This version of the form ascertained the principal's wishes and outlined the designated powers granted to the attorney-in-fact. The Pre-2005 Act generally required the presence of witnesses and notarization to authenticate the document's validity. Post-2005 Act: After the implementation of the Minnesota Uniform Power of Attorney Act in 2005, the process of establishing and using a Special Power of Attorney — Form 11B underwent notable changes. The Post-2005 Act aims to streamline procedures, enhance clarity, and provide stronger safeguards against potential abuse or misuse of power. The revised form requires specific provisions to be included, such as the duration of the power, any limitations imposed, and the principal's signature. Different Types of Minnesota Special Power of Attorney — Form 11B: 1. Financial Special Power of Attorney: This type of power of attorney grants the attorney-in-fact the authority to manage the principal's financial matters, including banking, investments, tax filings, real estate transactions, and other monetary affairs. 2. Medical Special Power of Attorney: With this power of attorney, the attorney-in-fact is authorized to make healthcare decisions and medical-related choices on behalf of the principal. This may include consenting to or refusing medical treatment, accessing medical records, and selecting healthcare providers. 3. Limited Special Power of Attorney: A limited special power of attorney provides the attorney-in-fact with authority over a specific and defined matter or timeframe. The powers granted are narrowly specified, ensuring that the attorney-in-fact can only act within those limitations. 4. Durable Special Power of Attorney: A durable special power of attorney remains effective even if the principal becomes incapacitated or mentally incompetent. This type of power of attorney can prevent the need for court-appointed guardianship or conservatorship in such situations. 5. Real Estate Special Power of Attorney: This form grants the attorney-in-fact the ability to manage the principal's real estate affairs, including buying or selling property, signing contracts, and handling property-related financial matters. In conclusion, a Minnesota Special Power of Attorney — Form 11— - Pre and Post 2005 Act is a legal tool that allows a principal to delegate specific powers to an attorney-in-fact. Whether it is the Pre-2005 Act or the Post-2005 Act version, the Special Power of Attorney can be tailored to address various areas, such as financial, medical, limited, durable, and real estate matters.