Precautionary planning
Lasting power of attorney in Dortmund
Rechtsanwalt und Notar (lawyer and civil-law notary) André Döttelbeck – Am Kai 8 – 44263 Dortmund
Precautionary planning
Decide for yourself who acts for you
An accident, illness or old age can mean that you are no longer able to manage your own affairs. With a lasting power of attorney you decide who will then act for you – in financial, legal and health matters.
A living will (advance healthcare directive) complements the power of attorney: in it you specify which medical treatments you want or refuse in certain situations.
At a glance
- Lasting power of attorney (general power of attorney)
- Living will
- Care directive
- Registration in the Central Register of Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Certified copies for your attorneys
- Correspondence in German, English and French
Process
How your lasting power of attorney is made
01
Initial meeting
We clarify whom you trust and which areas the power of attorney should cover.
02
Draft
You receive a draft of the power of attorney and the living will for review.
03
Notarisation
The notary explains the deed and also satisfies himself of your legal capacity.
04
Registration
On request, we register the power of attorney in the Central Register of Lasting Powers of Attorney of the German Federal Chamber of Notaries.
Documents
What to bring
- Valid identity card or passport
- Name, address and date of birth of your attorneys
- Any existing powers of attorney or living wills
- Your wishes regarding medical treatment
Something missing? Call us beforehand – we can request many documents ourselves.
Costs
What does the notary cost?
Notary fees are set by law for all notaries in Germany (Court and Notary Fees Act, GNotKG). They depend on the value and type of the transaction – not on the time spent.
We are happy to give you a cost estimate for your matter in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Questions and answers
Do I need a lasting power of attorney if I am married?
Yes, as a rule. Since 2023, spouses may represent each other only in health matters and only for a maximum of six months (section 1358 BGB). For banking, contracts or real estate, a power of attorney is required.
Why go to a notary instead of using a form?
A notarial power of attorney is generally accepted by banks and land registries and can also be used for real estate transactions. In addition, the notary checks your legal capacity – which protects against later doubts.
Does a living will have to be notarised?
No. A living will must be in writing and signed (section 1827 BGB). Notarisation is voluntary but can be useful so that it is worded clearly and unambiguously together with the power of attorney.
What is the Central Register of Lasting Powers of Attorney?
A register kept by the German Federal Chamber of Notaries in which lasting powers of attorney are recorded. Guardianship courts consult it – so your power of attorney will be found in an emergency.
Your contact
André Döttelbeck
Rechtsanwalt und Notar (lawyer and civil-law notary), official seat in Dortmund
Specialist lawyer for inheritance law · Specialist lawyer for banking and capital markets law
Call or write to us. We will discuss your matter, tell you which documents are needed and arrange an appointment at our office at Am Kai 8 by Lake Phoenix.
Phone: +49 231 700 188 71
Email: notar@doettelbeck.de
Office hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 am–3:30 pm
