A durable power of attorney is an essential legal tool that allows you to authorize another person (an agent) to manage your financial, medical, and legal affairs even when you are unable to do so yourself — due to illness, incapacity, or any other reason. Unlike a regular power of attorney, a durable power of attorney remains in effect even after the principal becomes legally incapacitated or loses mental capacity.

In recent years, the number of Israelis seeking to execute a durable power of attorney has increased significantly, particularly among seniors and young couples planning their future. The cost of the service varies depending on multiple factors: complexity of the instructions, number of authorization areas (financial, medical, legal), need for additional legal investment, and requirements of the Ministry of Justice.

Typical Cost Range in Israel

The cost of a durable power of attorney in Israel typically ranges between 1,500 NIS and 4,500 NIS, depending on the level of complexity. An attorney specializing in this field will be able to guide you precisely regarding the expected expenses in your specific case, taking into account your particular circumstances and the instructions you wish to delegate to your agent.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Requirements Assessment

At this stage, an experienced attorney will discuss with you in depth to understand your needs, your health status (if relevant), your assets, and the trustees to whom you wish to grant powers. This step is critical, as it determines the scope of the matter and thus the total costs.

Step 2: Drafting of Legal Documents

The attorney will prepare the durable power of attorney document in accordance with legal requirements and the guidelines of the Ministry of Justice. Each power will be drafted clearly and precisely to prevent misunderstandings or abuse. This is a step that requires deep legal knowledge and experience in the field.

Step 3: Certifications and Documentation

Depending on the circumstances, medical certifications may be required to confirm your mental capacity at the time of signing the power of attorney. Obtaining these certifications involves additional costs and time.

Step 4: Signing and Legal Formalization

The signing of the power of attorney will be executed in the presence of witnesses and in accordance with legal procedures. In some cases, a signature in the presence of an attorney or notary is also required, which adds to the costs.

Step 5: Implementing Durable Power of Attorney — Ministry of Justice Registration

After signing, the power of attorney must be registered in the Ministry of Justice registry. Implementing durable power of attorney online through the Ministry of Justice is a process that requires follow-up and office management. The attorney will ensure that the registration is completed properly and within a reasonable timeframe.

Scenario 1: Simple Continuing Power of Attorney (Financial Powers Only)

If you grant your attorney-in-fact financial powers only (bank account management, holding financial documents), the cost will be at the lower end of the range — typically between ILS 1,500 and ILS 2,200. This is a common situation among retirees who wish to authorize a child or spouse to handle basic financial matters.

Scenario 2: Complex Continuing Power of Attorney (Financial and Medical Powers)

When granting both financial and medical powers, the cost increases to ILS 2,500 to ILS 3,500. This includes precise drafting of medical instructions, medical certifications, and coordination with healthcare providers. This situation is common among couples and elderly individuals seeking comprehensive support.

Scenario 3: Comprehensive Continuing Power of Attorney (Financial, Medical, and Property Management)

A power of attorney covering three areas — financial, medical, and property management (real estate asset management) — requires deep legal treatment and includes complex reviews. The cost in this scenario ranges from ILS 3,500 to ILS 4,500 and more, depending on the complexity of the assets.

Scenario 4: Power of Attorney with Family Reviews or Disputes

In cases where there are family tensions or concerns about abuse of powers, an attorney will need to invest additional time in examining the attorneys-in-fact, drafting restrictive instructions, and coordinating with family members. These costs can reach ILS 5,000 and more.

Your Rights as a Power of Attorney Grantor

The power of attorney grantor (you) retains all of your rights even after issuing the power of attorney. You can supervise the trustee's actions, request financial reports, and revoke the power of attorney at any time, as long as you retain mental capacity. This is an important right that a lawyer will ensure is clearly recorded in the power of attorney.

Duties of the Trustee

The trustee must act in good faith, invest in your affairs as if they were his own, not use powers for personal purposes, and maintain confidentiality. Breach of these duties may lead to civil lawsuits and serious criminal penalties.

Importance of Legal Drafting

Clear and lawful drafting of the power of attorney is key to protecting your rights. An experienced lawyer will ensure that the instructions are clear, appropriately limited, and compliant with Israeli law. This saves you from legal problems in the future.