Recently, the Court of Cassation issued order No. 17154 of June 21, 2024, which offers important clarifications on the validity of special powers of attorney issued by a parent for legal actions involving a minor child. This ruling is fundamental to understanding how powers of attorney can be interpreted in the context of legal representation and the best interests of the child.

Context of the Ruling

The dispute concerned a medical liability claim brought by the parents in their own names and as legal representatives of their minor child. The healthcare provider appealed to the Court of Cassation; the parents were respondents. The provider had challenged the claimants' power of attorney because it did not expressly state that it was also granted in their capacity as parents. The Court rejected the first two grounds of appeal: the heading and content of the statement of claim showed that the authority also covered proceedings in the child's name and interests.

The special power of attorney issued by the appellant who acted for himself, as a parent, and as the legal representative of his minor son must be understood as issued, in addition to in his own name, also in the name and in the interest of the son, provided that this is evident from the heading and content of the procedural act to which the power of attorney pertains, even if the minor is not mentioned in the power of attorney itself.

Fundamental Principles of the Ruling

The order establishes some fundamental principles:

• The power of attorney can be interpreted as valid also for the minor if the heading and content of the procedural act are clear in this regard.
• It is essential that the power of attorney reflects the parent's intention to act also on behalf of the minor.
• The fact that the minor is not explicitly mentioned in the power of attorney does not automatically invalidate the act, provided that the minor's interest can be inferred.

This interpretation is in line with the principle of protecting the best interests of the child, enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and in national legislation such as Article 315-bis of the Italian Civil Code.

Conclusions

In conclusion, order No. 17154 of 2024 represents an important step in defining legal representation in family matters. It clarifies that a power of attorney issued by a parent can be considered valid also for the minor child, provided that the intention is clear and is evident from the content of the act. This decision not only strengthens the protection of minors' interests but also provides valuable guidance for legal professionals operating in this field.

Source: Court of Cassation, Third Civil Section, Order No. 17154 of June 21, 2024, full redacted copy hosted by IL CASO, pp. 1–4 and 8–10.