Financial Abuse in Relationships: The Hidden Form of Control That Leaves No Bruises
When your partner controls your money, they control your life. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing and addressing financial abuse. You might think abuse always leaves visible marks. But financial abuse in relationships is one of the most devastating—and hidden—forms of control. It happens in plain sight through bank accounts, credit cards, and […]
Why Your Second Marriage Needs a Prenup in Israel
If you’re entering a second marriage, you already understand how important it is to protect yourself and your loved ones. A second marriage prenup is not just a legal document—it’s a vital tool for safeguarding your assets, your family, and your future. In Israel, where family law can dramatically impact what happens in the event […]
Obtaining a Tzav Yerusha (Inheritance Order) in Israel
A Step-by-Step Guide WHAT IS A TZAV YERUSHA? A Tzav Yerusha (צו ירושה) is an official court order issued when someone passes away without leaving a valid Will. This document specifies who the legal heirs are according to Israeli intestate succession law. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WHERE TO APPLY Applications can be filed with either: APPLICATION PROCESS […]
How Prenups and Ketubahs Work Together Under Israeli Family Law
If you’re familiar with my perspective on Israel’s Rabbinic courts—and the broader family law system—you know I often view them critically. That said, this particular case stands out as an exception, and I believe the Dayanim (religious court judges) got it right. It’s hard to understand why someone who signs a prenuptial agreement with a […]
Parental Alienation in Israel: Can the Alienated Parent Still Be Forced to Pay Child Support?
What happens when children refuse to see their mother, but the court believes their father caused the estrangement? Should the mother still have to pay child support? A recent ruling from an Israeli Family Court addressed this dilemma. The judge found that the father may have played a central role in the children’s rejection of […]
Divorce & Splitting Finances Problems
What occurs when a couple splits their finances but the bank denies the loan holder from paying the wife’s portion? In certain cases, when couples seek legal counsel while still harboring hope of reconciling, it may be advisable to suggest halting any mutual claims process. Instead, they could opt for a reconciliation (shalom bayit) agreement […]
Property Division Without a Prenuptial Agreement
Couples tend to avoid discussing two main topics – money and sex. I don’t have anything groundbreaking to share on the topic of sex, but when it comes to money in a relationship, I have plenty of insights. Prenuptial agreements are a topic I specialize in, and there’s a reason why. Proper planning can alleviate a […]
Poor Will Drafting: How Attorney Mistakes Can Damage Families and Estates
As a Family Law lawyer in Israel, I frequently see how something meant to provide clarity—a Last Will and Testament—can, when drafted poorly, lead to confusion, conflict, and lasting emotional damage. Creating a Will is never easy. It involves making deeply personal decisions about your loved ones, knowing those choices will take effect after you’re […]
Planning for the Future: Understanding the Statement of Intent Document (מסמך הבעת רצון)
Securing Care for Your Loved Ones As parents and guardians, we constantly worry about the wellbeing of those under our care. But have you considered what would happen if you were no longer able to fulfill your caretaking responsibilities? This is where a Statement of Intent document (מסמך הבעת רצון – Mismach Haba’at Ratzon) becomes […]
Understanding the Israeli Continuing Power of Attorney and How It Differs from U.S. Legal Tools
When planning for the future, it is crucial to ensure that our wishes are respected if we are no longer able to make decisions for ourselves. In Israel, this is achieved through a Continuing Power of Attorney (CPOA ) (Yipuy Koach Mitmashech יפוי כוח מתמשך). While this may sound similar to legal tools used in […]