Power of attorney

A power of attorney is a private grant of authority to represent another person. It defines what the agent may do, for example conclude contracts, deal with banks, manage property or appear before authorities. Under Swiss law, the form is generally flexible, but particular transactions or institutions may require written, notarised or specially worded authority. The internal mandate and the external power of representation should be distinguished. Revocation, expiry, incapacity, conflicts of interest and proof of authority are frequent practical issues.