A durable power of attorney is a significant legal document that enables a person (the principal) to instruct another person (the agent) to act on their behalf in legal and financial matters, even in situations where the principal is unable to act independently. Unlike a regular power of attorney, a durable power of attorney remains in effect even after the principal becomes incapacitated or unable to express their wishes.

In recent years, the number of requests for durable power of attorney documents has increased significantly. Families in Israel understand the importance of planning ahead — to ensure that in the event of illness, accident, or aging, there is a trusted person who can manage their financial matters, medical decisions, and banking affairs.

Why Consult with an Experienced Attorney?

A durable power of attorney is not a simple document. It requires a deep understanding of inheritance laws, individual rights, and registration procedures at the Israeli Bar Association. An experienced attorney in this field will ensure that the document is grounded in law, that the selected agent is suitable for the role, and that your rights are protected at every step.

At the office of Attorney David Wasserman, we believe in the importance of personal guidance and human connection. Every client is a unique case, and we dedicate time to understanding your circumstances, concerns, and vision for the future. We explain every step in clear language, without unnecessary legal jargon.

The Key Steps in the Process

• Initial Consultation: A conversation with your attorney to understand your circumstances, potential agents, and their consent.
• Document Preparation: Drafting a durable power of attorney in accordance with legal requirements and your specific needs.
• Signing Before a Witness: A durable power of attorney must be signed before a legal witness or before an attorney to ensure its legal validity.
• Registration with the Israeli Bar Association: After signing, the document is registered with the Israeli Bar Association, which ensures its public validity.
• Guidance on Additional Notifications: We assist you in notifying banks, medical institutions, or other entities that may require a copy of the document.

Every step is important, and every detail matters. We do not take any action without your being fully informed of the implications.

Hod HaSharon is a city with a diverse population — young families, couples in their retirement years, and seniors. Each of these groups faces different challenges in legal planning. Young families may be interested in durable power of attorney as part of comprehensive estate planning. Couples in their retirement years want to ensure there are no family or financial burdens in the event of incapacity. Seniors seek peace of mind knowing that a trusted person will be able to care for them.

Durable Power of Attorney — Price and Cost Ranges

Durable power of attorney pricing varies depending on the complexity of the case. The Bar Association publishes a recommended price, but boutique law firms like ours may offer different costs depending on the circumstances. Typically, the basic cost for a simple durable power of attorney ranges from approximately 1,500 to 3,000 NIS, depending on the required level of attorney involvement and the complexity of the matters covered.

We believe in price transparency. In your initial consultation, we will tell you exactly what the cost will be, with no surprises. If there are additional needs — such as a durable power of attorney concerning medical matters, or specific banking matters — we will discuss this and provide you with an accurate estimate.

Durable Power of Attorney at the Bank — What You Need to Know

Banks in Israel require documents of certain types in order to recognize a durable power of attorney. Each bank may have somewhat different requirements, but generally they look for a certified copy of the durable power of attorney, along with identification documents of the representative. An experienced attorney knows exactly which documents are required and can help you prepare and submit them to the bank.

It is important to note that a durable power of attorney concerning a bank account must be very precise — it must clearly describe which actions are permitted to the representative (for example, withdrawing funds, transferring funds between accounts, paying bills, etc.). We handle these details carefully.

In recent times, we are seeing confusion between Enduring Power of Attorney and Yad Sarah (senior care arrangements). While both may be relevant to someone in retirement years, they differ significantly from a legal perspective.

Enduring Power of Attorney is a document that allows another person to act on your behalf in legal and financial matters. It remains valid even if you become incapacitated.

Yad Sarah is a welfare ministry program that provides assistance with performing daily activities—such as house cleaning, laundry, shopping, and so on. This is not a legal document, but rather a social service.

If you are interested in both, we can assist you with comprehensive planning that combines both an Enduring Power of Attorney and guidance for recipients of Yad Sarah services.

The Israeli Bar Association has published recommended prices for various legal services, including Enduring Power of Attorney. The recommended price serves as a reference point, but attorneys may offer different costs based on their expenses, experience, and case complexity.

Generally, the basic cost for a simple Enduring Power of Attorney (without additional expenses) ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 NIS. If there are additional needs—such as an Enduring Power of Attorney regarding medical matters, or if the case is more complex—the cost may be higher.

At our firm, we offer complete transparency regarding costs. In the initial consultation, we will provide you with an accurate estimate, without surprises later. We believe that a client should know exactly what they are paying for and why.

Cost Comparison — What Is Included in the Fee?

When choosing an attorney, it is important to understand what is included in the fee. Typically, a basic fee includes:

• Initial consultation to understand your needs
• Preparation of the Enduring Power of Attorney document
• Guidance on signing before a legal witness
• Registration of the document with the Bar Association

Additional costs may include: supplementary documents (such as Power of Attorney regarding medical matters), guidance to third-party institutions, or legal assistance regarding family or inheritance matters. All of these will be discussed explicitly during the consultation phase.