A "general power of attorney" is a legal document that allows one party to act as an agent on behalf of another person, the principal. The general power of attorney is the broadest form of power of attorney as it allows the agent to conduct any type of business on behalf of the principal. Because of this sweeping power, careful consideration should be given before signing a general power of attorney, and businesses or individuals wishing to enter into such agreements should be aware that more restricted (or special) powers of attorney contracts can be used instead..