A springing power of attorney is a power of attorney that takes effect after the expiration of a specified time or after the occurrence or non-occurrence of a specified event. The event could be the issuance of a letter by a doctor that the principal has lost capacity or something similar. After such incapacitation the power is identical to a durable power, but cannot be invoked before the incapacity. The power has been created but lies dormant. It is brought to life on the happening of the specified event: it springs into effect at that time. If a springing power is used, care should be given to specifying exactly how and when the power springs into effect.