Inheritance, Wills, and Estate Administration – Arranging the Legal Continuity of Property

When a person passes away, the question of what will be done with their property, rights, and debts is not only an emotional matter, but also a complex legal one. Halevi • Levi Law Office, which specializes in inheritance law and estate administration, accompanies families and heirs through will proceedings, objections, estate administration, and the implementation of inheritance orders – with responsibility, discretion, and respect for the deceased's wishes.

A Will – The Secure Way to Future Control

A will is a legal document in which a person determines how their property will be divided after their death. There are several types of wills recognized under the Inheritance Law, 5725–1965:

A handwritten will

A will made before witnesses

A will made before an authority (a judge, notary, or Inheritance Registrar)

A deathbed will

A will drawn up by a lawyer who specializes in inheritance law, and validated according to the requirements, provides peace of mind – and prevents future family disputes.

Inheritance Order or Probate Order

After a person's death, an application must be submitted for:

An inheritance order – if there is no will

A probate order – if there is a valid will

The applications are submitted to the Registrar of Inheritance Affairs or to the Rabbinical Court (at the applicant's choice), and must be accompanied by forms, affidavits, publication confirmations, and identifying documents.

Estate Administration – When the Appointee Is Responsible for Execution

In cases where a professional party is required to manage the deceased's property, the court appoints an estate administrator, whose role is:

To locate assets and debts

To ensure a fair distribution in accordance with the will or the law

To resolve disputes among heirs

To pay the estate's debts and to approach the authorities

Proper administration of an estate prevents serious mistakes – especially when it involves real estate assets, businesses, inheritances from abroad, or complex families.

Frequently Asked Questions – Inheritance, Wills, and Estate Administration

Is it mandatory to make a will?

No, but without a will, the inheritance will be divided according to the law, and not necessarily according to your personal wishes. It is therefore recommended to make a will in advance.

How much are heirs entitled to under the Inheritance Law?

The default: the spouse receives half, and the children divide the remainder of the estate. In cases where there are no children – the parents or the siblings are entitled.

Can a will be challenged?

Yes, an objection to a will may be filed on the grounds of undue influence, forgery, lack of capacity, or a formal defect – and substantial evidence is required.

Who needs estate administration?

When there are complex assets, a dispute among heirs, conflicting wills, or helpless persons among the heirs – it is recommended to approach the court for the appointment of a professional estate administrator.

How long does it take to obtain an inheritance order or a probate order?

On average between 2 and 3 months – depending on the Registrar's workload and the completeness of the documents.

Halevi • Levi Law Office – Inheritance Law with a Sensitive and Professional Approach

The office accompanies clients in preparing wills, filing applications for inheritance orders, representation in objections, and administering estates – with responsibility, sensitivity, and full transparency toward the family and the authorities.