The will in Israel: what is it and how is it written?

The will in Israel: What is it and how do you write it legally and securely?


What is a will according to Israeli law?

Incompetence of the person appointing a will in Israel

Clarifies the importance of the appointee being legally and mentally competent when making the will, to prevent future revocation.

Formal requirements for witnesses to a will in Israel

Every will must include two witnesses signing according to חוק הירושה, תשל”א-1970, to prevent legal objections.


Types of wills in Israel

Handwritten will – legal writing in Israel

A handwritten will must include a date, signature, and compliance with the legal requirements.

Will before an authority – filing an official document in Israel

A will is being prepared in my name. Registrar of Inheritances or Family Court in Jerusalem, recommended in complex cases.

Oral will – when is it permitted in Israel?

Only in exceptional cases is very strong evidence required in court.


Formal requirements and practical aspects of writing a will

Writing detailed instructions regarding property in Israel

The importance of specifying property, assets, finances, and additional documents to prevent future disputes.

Safeguarding and depositing the will in Israel

המלצה על שמירת המסמך אצל עו”ד או ברשות הרשמית עם קוד זיהוי במערכת רשם הירושות.

Strengthening the validity of a will in Israel through witnesses

Adherence to formal requirements and legal possession helps prevent Future objections.


Practical examples of writing a will in Israel

example: Real estate property in Jerusalem

ממנה כתב צוואה עם נכס בירושלים, ציין יורשים, הפקיד אצל עו”ד – נמנע סכסוך עתידי.

example: A cumbersome will and mistakes

Unclear will, without witnesses – after the testator's death, an objection was filed and the court annulled part of the will.


Key ruling in will opposition proceedings in Israel

ע”א 872/18 לוי נ’ לוי – ביטול חלקי של צוואה

The court annulled a will due to the lack of required witnesses, despite the testator's wishes.

ע”א 4034/16 כהן נ’ כהן – אישור צוואה בכתב יד

The court approved the will, despite the heirs' objection, due to compliance with the requirements of the law.


Summary and recommendations for writing a will in Israel

חשיבות ייעוץ עו”ד מומחה בירושלים

Professional advice strengthens the validity of the will and prevents errors and disputes.

Maintaining an up-to-date and secure document in Israel

Periodic inspection and submission to official authority ensures the implementation of the will of the testator.

For further reference: How to write a will