A Pennsylvania durable power of attorney is a long-term arrangement between the principal (individual implementing the form) and an attorney-in-fact (appointed representative). This type of power of attorney form is used to transfer financial authority from the principal to the attorney-in-fact. It is durable because the form does not terminate when the principal becomes incapacitated, unlike some other powers of attorney. Executing this document means that the principal has found a responsible person (usually a relative or close friend) to manage their financial affairs during their lifetime regardless of their mental or physical state. The principal also has the option of having their power of attorney document only come into effect should they become incapacitated.