Marriage-Dissolution Proceedings in Israel – When the Separation Does Not Go Through the Rabbinate

In Israel, the marriage and divorce of members of the same Jewish religion are conducted solely in the religious courts. However, when it comes to mixed couples (in terms of religion), persons without a religion, or those who married in a civil marriage – the divorce process is called "dissolution of marriage," and it is carried out in the Family Court, unlike an ordinary divorce.

Halevi • Levi Law Office, which specializes in family law, accompanies couples through marriage-dissolution proceedings – while providing a comprehensive legal response for arranging all the accompanying rights: property, children, support, and personal status.

What is the marriage-dissolution proceeding?

Dissolution of marriage is a civil-judicial proceeding intended for cases in which a divorce cannot be carried out under religious law – for reasons of personal status, civil marriage, a different religion, or a lack of religious affiliation.

The Family Court is authorized to hear the application and to issue a marriage-dissolution order, which is the equivalent of a divorce judgment, and at times the proceeding includes an opinion of the Attorney General, and sometimes also of the Rabbinical Courts when one party is Jewish.

When is a marriage-dissolution proceeding required?

Couples of different religious statuses (for example, a Jewish man and a Christian woman)

Couples who are not recognized as belonging to any religion

Same-sex couples who married abroad

Couples who married in a civil marriage in a foreign country

Couples with no religion / religions not recognized in Israel

Arranging accompanying matters – property, children, and support

As in any separation, in a marriage dissolution too the following must be arranged:

Division of property according to the balancing principles

Child custody and parenting-time arrangements

Support for minors or support between the spouses

Updating the status registration at the Ministry of the Interior

A professional and precise process prevents complications and ensures the protection of all parties' rights, and especially the best interest of the minors.

Frequently asked questions – dissolution of marriage in Israel

What is the difference between divorce and dissolution of marriage?

A divorce takes place according to religious law in the religious court. A dissolution of marriage takes place in the Family Court – and is suitable for those who cannot or do not wish to divorce religiously.

Is a lawyer required for a dissolution of marriage?

Not mandatory – but highly recommended. This is a complex legal proceeding, at times before the Attorney General, and especially when there are children, property, or civil registration to arrange.

How long does the proceeding take?

On average 3–6 months, depending on the caseload and the complexity of the case (with or without consent).

Is it mandatory to file a joint application?

No. An application may also be filed by one party only, but service and a full proceeding will be required.

Halevi • Levi Law Office – professional guidance in marriage dissolution

The firm has successfully accompanied couples through marriage-dissolution proceedings, the drafting of separation agreements, the handling of property and custody matters, and the arranging of personal status before the Ministry of the Interior. With us you will find a combination of experience, humanity, and commitment.