Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Israel

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Kanir Law Office
Jerusalem, Israel

Founded in 1973
English
Kanir Law Office is a Tel Aviv based Israeli law firm with a long standing focus on family law. Led by Pesach Kanir and Yonathan Kanir, the firm has earned recognition as a leading Israeli family law practice and has been consistently ranked among the top firms in the field since the inception of...

Founded in 1988
2 people in their team
English
Yitzhak Goldstein, a law firm and notary based in Bnei Brak and serving Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan and the central region, focuses on civil-commercial legal matters with particular strength in real-estate transactions, wills and estates, banking matters, corporate work and notarial services. The firm...
Ben Hanan Law Firm
Jerusalem, Israel

Founded in 2008
English
Ben Hanan Law Firm is a boutique law practice based in Be'er Sheva, Israel, established in 2008. The firm focuses on Real Estate and Property transactions, Divorce and Family matters, Wills and Estates, Personal Injury, and Civil and Commercial disputes, serving both private clients and...
Mali Haimoff - Law Firm
Jerusalem, Israel

Founded in 2007
2 people in their team
English
Mali Haimoff - Law Firm is a boutique Israeli law practice that concentrates on real estate and civil law, delivering specialized guidance to both individuals and businesses. Based in Tel Aviv, the firm handles residential and commercial real estate transactions, including sale and purchase deals,...
Scorpion Investigations
Jerusalem, Israel

English
Scorpion Investigations is a Jerusalem based private investigations firm offering discreet, professional services to individuals, families and organizations. The firm specializes in private client investigations, family matters, and corporate security support, delivering tailored teams and timely...
Attorney Uri Ganor
Haifa, Israel

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Attorney Uri Ganor is a lawyer, mediator and notary with extensive and rich experience with clients - large and small - doctors, department heads, professors, lawyers, accountants, ministers, businessmen, CEOs of high-tech companies, some of which are listed on the stock exchanges in Israel and in...
RDB LAW FIRM
Petaẖ Tiqwa, Israel

Founded in 2013
50 people in their team
Hebrew (modern)
English
Arabic
RDB & coLaw firm, mediation and notaryYour home to the world of lawThe company RDB Lawyers, Mediation and Notary operates in the field of law and provides  legal services for proceedings conducted both outside the walls of the court and within it.The company provides a response to the...
Heskia - Hacmun Law Firm
Tel Aviv, Israel

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
Hebrew (modern)
English
Arabic
HH a Tel-Aviv Law FirmIn 1998, two visionary Tel Aviv lawyers started Heskia-Hacmun Law Firm with the goal of offering world-class legal counsel and guidance to Israeli and international law firm clients. Over the years, our expertise has evolved to include Litigation, banking and finance law,...
Hait Family Law
Jerusalem, Israel

Founded in 2009
10 people in their team
Hebrew (modern)
English
Arabic
The Hait Family Law MethodTaking the time to get to know youEncouraging you to consider marriage counselling before beginning divorce proceedingsDoing everything in our power to help you understand the systemProviding easily accessible educational materials so you’ll know your rightsGuiding you...
Sternberg & Co. Advocates

Sternberg & Co. Advocates

30 minutes Free Consultation
Jerusalem, Israel

Founded in 2011
3 people in their team
Hebrew (modern)
English
French
Sternberg & Co. Advocates is a Jerusalem-based boutique law firm founded in 2011, known for its multidisciplinary legal expertise and personalized approach to complex legal matters. The firm represents clients in Israel’s full judicial system - from Magistrate and District Courts to the...
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About Will & Testament Law in Israel

Will and Testament law in Israel is governed primarily by the Inheritance Law of 1965. This law outlines the procedures for creating a valid will and the distribution of an individual's assets after death. A will allows individuals to specify how their estate should be managed and distributed among survivors. In Israel, there are different types of wills, such as handwritten, oral (in specific situations), and those made in the presence of a legal authority. It is crucial for a will to meet specific formal requirements to be considered legally binding.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several reasons why an individual might need a lawyer when dealing with wills and testaments in Israel:

  • Complex Family Situations: Multiple marriages, estranged family members, or international family dynamics can complicate estate distribution.
  • Large or Complex Estates: If the estate includes a variety of assets, such as real estate, investments, or business interests, legal advice is recommended.
  • Disputed Wills: Disagreements among beneficiaries may arise, necessitating legal representation.
  • Non-Standard Requests: If the testator wishes for specific conditions to be met or has unique distribution plans, legal assistance ensures these are achievable and lawful.
  • Legal Compliance: Ensuring that the will meets all legal requirements to be recognized by a court.

Local Laws Overview

Understanding the key aspects of Israel's local laws regarding wills and testaments is essential:

  • Types of Wills: Israel recognizes several types of wills including handwritten (holographic), witnessed (created before two witnesses), official (made in a legal authority’s presence), and oral (under very specific circumstances).
  • Validity Requirements: For a will to be valid, it must be made voluntarily, without coercion, by a person of sound mind, and must comply with formal requirements specific to its type.
  • Intestate Succession: If a person passes away without a will, the estate is distributed according to the default order of inheritance as set by Israeli law.
  • Inheritance Rights: The law protects the rights of specific family members, and in some cases, spouses are granted special rights to inherit certain portions of the estate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will in Israel?

Your estate will be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession, meaning the distribution will follow a predetermined hierarchy of heirs as outlined by Israeli law.

Can I disinherit a spouse or child in my will?

While it is possible to alter the distribution to a spouse or child, some protections exist, especially for spouses, which may limit complete disinheritance.

Are foreign wills recognized in Israel?

In certain cases, foreign wills are recognized in Israel, but it is advisable to have them reviewed by a local lawyer to ensure they meet Israeli requirements.

How can I ensure my will is legally binding?

Ensure it meets all the formal requirements specific to the type of will you choose to create and consider having it reviewed by a legal professional.

Can I update or revoke my will?

Yes, a person can update or revoke their will at any time, as long as they are of sound mind and comply with the legal requirements for making such changes.

Is a lawyer necessary to draft a will in Israel?

While not legally required, having a lawyer can help ensure that the will is valid and effectively communicates your wishes, reducing the chance of disputes.

How are wills contested in Israel?

Wills can be contested in the family court or rabbinical court on various grounds including incapacity, undue influence, or non-compliance with formal requirements.

What is a living will in Israeli law?

A living will is a separate document that specifies an individual's preferences for medical treatment should they become unable to communicate their decisions.

What role does a notary public play in the wills process?

A notary public can assist in verifying the authenticity of wills and may serve as a legal authority in witnessing official wills.

Are there tax implications for inheriting in Israel?

As of now, there is no inheritance tax in Israel, but there may be other tax implications related to the estate, depending on the assets involved.

Additional Resources

For more information on wills and testaments in Israel, consider these resources:

  • The Israel Bar Association: Offers information about finding lawyers and legal rights.
  • Israeli Ministry of Justice: Provides guidance and legislation regarding inheritance laws.
  • Non-profit organizations like Yedid and others that offer legal aid and advice.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with drafting or disputing a will in Israel, consider the following steps:

  1. Consult with a Legal Expert: Reach out to a lawyer who specializes in inheritance law to discuss your circumstances and needs.
  2. Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare all relevant documents, including any existing wills, identification, and information on assets.
  3. Understand Your Rights and Options: Educate yourself on your rights and the potential implications of your decisions regarding your will.
  4. Take Action: If necessary, file the will or any claims with the appropriate court or legal body as advised by your attorney.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Israel through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Will & Testament, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.