When an individual loses the capacity to manage their own affairs and has not prepared an LPA in advance, Israeli courts may appoint a legal guardian. Shoshi Arbib assists families and institutions through the guardianship process with sensitivity and expertise. (Shoshi Arbib Law Office.)
When an individual loses the capacity to manage their own affairs and has not prepared an LPA in advance, Israeli courts may appoint a legal guardian. Shoshi Arbib assists families and institutions through the guardianship process with sensitivity and expertise.
Our Guardianship Services
- Filing for guardianship orders
- Representation before the Family Court
- Drafting of advance "wish documents"
- Ongoing advisory for appointed guardians
The Guardianship Process — Step by Step
- File a petition with the Family Court — Submit a guardianship application with a medical opinion confirming the person's incapacity, identifying information, and the proposed guardian.
- Court investigation — The court appoints an investigator who interviews the person and files a welfare report assessing their needs and situation.
- Hearing — The court holds hearings where the applicant (and the person if capable) may be heard. The court applies the principle of the least restrictive alternative.
- Guardianship order — If approved, the court issues a guardianship order specifying scope (body, property, or both), duration, and any restrictions on the guardian's authority.
- Ongoing supervision — The Guardian General's Office supervises all guardians and requires periodic reports on the ward's situation and assets.
Israeli courts apply the principle of the least restrictive alternative: if a limited guardianship order is sufficient, a full order will not be granted. Where advance planning was not done, the process typically takes several months and involves significant legal costs.
Israeli courts apply the principle of the least restrictive alternative: if a limited guardianship order is sufficient, a full order will not be granted. Where advance planning was not done, the process typically takes several months and involves significant legal costs.
Why Prepare an LPA Instead
A Lasting Power of Attorney, prepared while a person is still competent, avoids the need for court guardianship entirely. The person retains control over who will act on their behalf, and the process is far less costly and faster. We strongly recommend addressing this before a crisis arises. See our Lasting Power of Attorney page for details.
When will an Israeli court appoint a legal guardian?
An Israeli Family Court will appoint a legal guardian when a person lacks the capacity to manage their own affairs and has not prepared a Lasting Power of Attorney in advance. The application must include a medical opinion confirming incapacity. The court prefers the least restrictive solution available.
What is the difference between a guardian of the body and a guardian of property in Israel?
A guardian of the body makes decisions about personal matters such as medical treatment, place of residence, and daily welfare. A guardian of property manages the person's assets, finances, and obligations. Israeli law allows the court to appoint one person for both roles or separate individuals for each domain.
Official References: Israel Ministry of Justice — Guardianship · Israeli Courts Administration · Israel Land Authority · National Insurance Institute of Israel · Israel Tax Authority
Shoshi Arbib Law Office — Attorney | CPA | Mediator, Netanya, Israel.
