Unless you state otherwise, your appointment of a spouse dissolves on divorce, but you may want to revoke any powers of attorney before the divorce is final.

A statutory durable power of attorney (which authorizes your agent to act for you in property and financial matters) generally can be revoked by a statement in writing delivered to the agent.  The specific terms of the power of attorney you signed may require you to take other action, such as filing your revocation in the public records.  You also should be aware that, unless the terms of the power of attorney provide otherwise, your revocation may not be effective as to a third party, unless that party receives actual notice that you have revoked the power. 

If you have signed a medical power of attorney, you have the right to revoke the authority granted to your agent by informing your agent or your health or residential care provider orally or in writing or by your execution of a subsequent medical power of attorney.

Last updated on January 6, 2011 by Glenn Karisch