How can we find out cause of death if we don't have power of attorney? 7 Answers as of September 09, 2011

The Power of Attorney is not any good upon a death. The executor of an estate or administrator if there is no will would be able to find out. But you would have to file to be the Administrator or Executor under the will. Let me know if you have any questions.

Your power of attorney dies with you, so the fact that your sister was POA over your grandmother means nothing. The nursing home probably cannot disclose that kind of information due to privacy issues. However, the following people can order a death certificate with the cause of death: To the decedent's spouse, parent, child, grandchild, or sibling (if 18 years of age or older). To any person who provides a "Will" that has been executed pursuant to state statute 732.502; an insurance policy or other document that demonstrates his or her interest in the estate of the decedent; Or to any person who provides documentation that he or she is acting on behalf of any of the previously mentioned persons. Fifty (50) years following the date of death, "Cause of death" becomes public information and anyone may obtain a Death Certificate with this information. Any time period prior to the fifty years, "cause of death" is considered confidential by Florida law.

A power of attorney dies with the maker, as such the nursing home may not be able to speak with the attorney-in-fact either. The options are try to order a death certificate, it will include the cause of death. As a family member the County may be willing to provide you with one. The cost is about $20.00; or you may need to go into probate court to get an order that enables you to access that information. The last alternative is the most costly.

A POA would not help as they expire upon death. You can order a death certificate from the department of vital statistics.

The power of attorney died when she died, so it's irrelevant. The executor or administrator of the estate should be able to get information.

Cause of death is indicated on the death certificate.