What it means
A power of attorney is a legal document by which you (the principal) authorise another person (your attorney) to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf. A general (or non-enduring) power of attorney is often used for a fixed period or purpose and automatically ends if you lose mental capacity. Each state and territory has its own powers of attorney legislation and forms. For decisions that should continue after capacity is lost, an enduring power of attorney is required.
How it's used
While travelling overseas, she gave her brother a general power of attorney to sign documents for a property sale.