Physically unable to sign legal documents

Question:

My father is trying to create a power of attorney, but he had surgery and lost the use of his hand. How does he proceed if he is not able to sign the power of attorney form?

Response:

There are two possible solutions for your father to execute his power of attorney or other legal documents.

First, someone else can sign for him, stating under the signature “Jane Doe, signing on behalf of and at the request of John Doe who is physically unable to place his signature.”

Second, your father could use his other hand to sign as best he can. Then whoever notarizes his signature can say he “made his mark” rather than that he “signed his name.” I prefer this approach because it’s still your father executing the document. It’s more likely to be accepted by banks and other financial institutions.

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