Explanation of "Power of Appointment"
Definition:
"Power of appointment" is a legal term. It refers to the authority given by a person (called the donor) to another person (called the donee) to choose who will receive certain property or benefits after the donor passes away. This is often specified in a will or legal document, allowing the donee to decide how the property will be distributed.
Usage Instructions
Context: You usually encounter this term in discussions about wills, trusts, and estate planning.
Who uses it: Lawyers, estate planners, and people involved in inheritance discussions.
Example
Simple Example: If a grandmother writes in her will, "I give my granddaughter the power of appointment over my jewelry," it means the granddaughter can decide who gets the jewelry after the grandmother dies.
Advanced Usage
In Practice: The donee can choose specific beneficiaries or categories of beneficiaries, such as family members or charities. For example, "The trustee has the power of appointment to select the beneficiaries of the trust fund."
Word Variants
Adjective: "Appointive" - relating to the power to appoint, as in "appointive power."
Noun: "Appointee" - a person who is appointed.
Different Meanings
Synonyms
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
While "power of appointment" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs, it relates to phrases like: - "Give someone the green light" - to give someone permission to proceed with a decision or action (similar to granting power). - "Call the shots" - to be in charge and make decisions (related to having authority).
Summary
In summary, "power of appointment" is an important legal concept that allows one person to decide who gets certain property after someone else has passed away.