382. Lawyer not mandatory

when making power of attorney

Question: Dear Sir/Madam, I have a query regarding Power of Attorney document attestation. I came to know that the document should be attested by Consulate/Embassy. My bank has given me the format of power of attorney. Now my question is, do I need to take the print outs of the format on plain white papers and go to embassy for attestation? Or it is something that I need to approach a lawyer, make the POA and then go to embassy for attestation. Can you please clear this doubt as I am bit confused... Thanks and Regards, Anand Answer: If you are going to take the Power of Attorney to the Indian Consulate personally, then you need not get the document notarized. If you can get legible printouts, you could print out the format. The format given to you by your bank would just be of the sample of wording required. If unable to get legible printout, you could have the document reproduced on a white sheet of paper. The services of a lawyer are not mandatory, if you need help in drafting a power of attorney, then you may need a lawyer. If you already have the wording, you have the option of doing this yourself. Indian consulate will require proof of your identity. So when going to the Indian Consulate for attestation take at least two copies of the power of attorney document and proof of your ID. The current fee charged by the Indian Consulate is $20. Usually this work is done at the counter the same day.