Paperwork and process
What is a power of attorney and does it survive death?
Short answer
A power of attorney gives someone authority to act on another's behalf during life. It ends at death — automatically. After death, only the executor or trustee has legal authority over the estate.
What this usually means
A power of attorney gives someone authority to act on another's behalf during life. It ends at death — automatically. After death, only the executor or trustee has legal authority over the estate.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.