An Enduring Power of Attorney (Enduring Power of Attorney) is a legal document signed in the hand of the grantor (principal) in which he or she delegates decision-making powers to another person — the attorney-in-fact — who will act on their behalf even after they lose mental capacity (due to illness, old age, or any other reason). Unlike a regular power of attorney, it remains in effect even when you can no longer make decisions yourself.

In Israel, an enduring power of attorney is regulated under the Enduring Power of Attorney Law (1983) and laws relating to social services. Any person with full mental capacity (at least 18 years old) can sign such a document, and it comes into effect immediately or at a pre-determined time.

The Impact of an Enduring Power of Attorney on Your Life

• Protection of Your Financial Rights: The attorney-in-fact will be able to manage your bank accounts, pay bills, make investment decisions, and fulfill your financial obligations as if you were doing so yourself.
• Management of Your Assets: Real estate matters, sale or rental of a property, obtaining a loan — all of these can be done in your name.
• Medical Decisions: With your prior consent, the attorney-in-fact can make medical treatment decisions in accordance with your wishes.
• Preservation of Dignity and Identity: You determine who will make decisions on your behalf, not a court or government authority.

The importance of an enduring power of attorney increases especially when dealing with advanced age, chronic illnesses, or situations where there is a risk of losing mental capacity. Instead of a court deciding for you, you determine in advance to whom you will grant authority.

A boutique law firm in Modiin, the office of Attorney David Wasserman, specializes in durable power of attorney for many years. We understand that this is a personal and unprecedented decision, so we accompany each client through a customized and focused process.

Process Stages at Our Office

1. Initial Consultation: We listen to you, understand your situation, your concerns, and your goals. It doesn't matter if you are young or elderly — a durable power of attorney is beneficial for everyone.
2. Selecting Your Agent: We help you decide who your representative will be. It can be a family member, a close friend, or even two people together. We explain the responsibilities and obligations.
3. Defining the Powers: Will your agent be able to make all decisions (financial, medical, will) or only certain matters? We design the document according to your specific wishes.
4. Document Drafting: We prepare your power of attorney in accordance with legal requirements, in clear Hebrew without legal ambiguity.
5. Signature Before Witnesses: According to law, your signature must be made in the presence of two competent witnesses. We arrange this precisely.
6. Filing with Authorities: If necessary, we submit the document to relevant authorities (for example, Iad Sarah) to ensure full validity.

The entire process typically takes a few weeks, depending on the complexity of your situation. We maintain complete confidentiality and work at a pace that is convenient for you.

A natural question: How much does a lasting power of attorney cost? The answer depends on several factors: the complexity of the situation, the number of agents, the powers granted, and any additional filing procedures.

Typical Cost Ranges

According to the recommended price list of the Israel Bar Association, the cost of a basic lasting power of attorney (with one agent and broad powers) typically ranges between ₪1,500 to ₪3,500. However, in more complex cases (such as a power of attorney with multiple agents, limited powers, or additional checks), the cost may reach ₪5,000 and above.

Important to know: There are no hidden costs. At the law office of David Wasserman, we provide a clear price quote in advance, and the client knows exactly what they are paying for. If additional procedures are required (filing with authorities, bank checks), we notify you in advance.

Two areas where enduring power of attorney plays a critical role are banking and social insurance.

Enduring Power of Attorney in Banking

When you lose mental capacity, your bank will not be able to transfer funds from your account or make investment decisions without legal authorization. An enduring power of attorney allows your representative to manage your account, pay bills, transfer funds, and even obtain loans on your behalf. Israeli banks recognize enduring powers of attorney, but it is important that the document is valid and legally enforceable.

To ensure your bank accepts the power of attorney, we prepare the document in accordance with the specific bank's requirements, and sometimes even submit it directly to your branch.

Enduring Power of Attorney with the National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi)

The National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi) handles social benefits and social insurance. If you receive a pension or benefits from Bituach Leumi and are concerned you may lose mental capacity, an enduring power of attorney will allow your representative to manage your pension, file requests for additional benefits, and communicate with Bituach Leumi on your behalf.

Similar to banks, Bituach Leumi requires a properly executed and legally signed document. We ensure your document meets Bituach Leumi's requirements and submit it on your behalf if necessary.