A Guide to ‘Known in Public’ Relationships

How Are Yeduim Batsibur (“Known in Public”) Relationships Defined?

Due to personal, religious, or financial considerations, marriage is not always feasible, preferable, or possible for a couple. The legal status of Yeduim Batsibur (“known in public”) provides an option for those who cannot or do not wish to have a legal and/or halachic marriage. This arrangement allows couples who cohabit as part of a committed relationship to possess many of the same rights as a married couple.

The defining criteria for a “known in public” couple are not always clear-cut, and the courts are often tasked with determining the nature of a couple’s relationship when legal difficulties arise. Typically, the relationship needs to satisfy at least two basic tests to qualify for the legal status of “known in public”:

• Intimacy test: The individuals live as a married couple would, showing commitment, faithfulness, affection, and a dedication to sharing their lives.
• Economic test: The couple shares a household, including bills, and has a shared financial situation, such as a joint bank account.

“Known in public” couples are not registered with the government like religiously married couples. However, you can take specific steps to ensure the recognition of your relationship and take advantage of the legal benefits and protections afforded to known couples. Through careful planning with a family law attorney, you can be assured that your partnership is prepared for all future possibilities.

When Could a “Known in Public” Arrangement Be Useful for a Couple?

Secular marriages are non-existent in Israel, so many individuals find themselves unable to marry if they do not meet the requirements for a religious marriage. Alternatively, others may prefer to opt out of religious marriage for personal reasons, even if they are eligible. The status of “known in public” is frequently utilized by the following couples:

• Same-sex couples
• Mixed religion couples
• A Cohen and a divorced woman
• Individuals who are prohibited from marrying due to their status with the Rabbinate

What Are the Benefits of Being “Known in Public”?

Israel affords “known in public” couples nearly the same rights and obligations as married couples. However, they will still have their personal status listed as “single” by the Interior Ministry. Some of the legal advantages of being “known in public” include:

• The ability to apply for social benefits as a couple
• Ensuring your children have the same legal status as children of married individuals
• Receiving parenting leave from your employment
• Retaining survivorship rights to assets and inheritances, such as pension funds, after one partner passes

What Documents are Required to Register as Common Law Spouses With the National Insurance Institute?

If you are a “known in public” couple and wish to have your relationship regarded the same as a marriage for National Insurance purposes, you can fill out an application, attach requested proofs, and mail it to the National Insurance Institute. Be advised that the application is in Hebrew, and Anglo-Jewish individuals may require assistance with its completion. To qualify as common law spouses for this application, you must provide proof of your relationship, such as:

• Written affidavits from individuals who can vouch for your status
• Evidence of mutual property or shared household expenses
• A copy of your financial agreement or will
• Demonstrations of appearing together in public as a couple
• Proof of your qualification for public benefits as a unit

Is it Possible to Register a Shared Family Name With Your Partner?

Taking on your partner’s name or choosing a new name for your family unit can be an important symbolic step for your relationship. As a “known in public” couple, you have the right to change your family name in the population registry once every seven years by completing an application and paying a fee. If both you and your partner apply, your minor children are also automatically included in the application.

How Can You Ensure Your Partner Has Legal Standing if the Unexpected Happens?

While a “known in public” relationship can be clarified by both parties for legal purposes when they are alive, the situation can become much more complex if one partner passes away or becomes incapacitated. If there are no documents in place to elucidate the individual’s wishes, such as a will, financial agreement, or continuing power of attorney, the other partner may face legal challenges from family members or the government. The legal situation can be particularly sticky if foreign assets and laws are involved because many countries, including the US, do not recognize a “known in public” relationship in the same way Israel does.

It is highly recommended to draft official documents defining your partnership, your wishes for the distribution of your estate, and contingency plans if you become ill or injured. These essential documents can ensure your partner’s rights are protected in all situations.

What Happens if a “Known in Public” Relationship Ends?

Unlike a religious marriage, a “known in public” partnership can be dissolved without involving the Rabbinic Court or obtaining a GET. However, the couple may still require a ruling from the Family Court if they cannot agree on how to split their shared assets or arrange child custody and support following a breakup. The court’s ruling may vary based on the specific situation, but it will often follow the standard procedure that would be appropriate for a married couple.

To make the process easier, cheaper, and less contentious, partners should create a financial agreement or a custom-made prenuptial agreement to outline what will occur when the relationship ends. Ideally, this document will never be used. However, having an agreement in place grants you peace of mind and protects your future financial stability and parental rights.

How Can a Family Law Attorney Assist You?

Choosing to share your life with someone, either through marriage or a “known in public” relationship, is a significant commitment. While “known in public” partners are unable to create a record of that commitment in the population registry, there are various other legal documents that can and should be made to establish the nature of your relationship. A knowledgeable attorney from Hait Family Law can assist you with drafting and filing these documents with the court. By taking proactive steps now, you can ensure you are in control of important decisions regarding your property, health care, and children instead of leaving them in the hands of a judge. Contact our law firm for a complimentary case evaluation today: 077-200-8161.