What is an Inheritance Decree and Why is it Essential?

An inheritance decree is an official legal document issued by Israeli courts or rabbinical courts that confirms the rights of heirs to the deceased's assets. This document serves as legal proof when transferring assets, opening bank accounts, selling real estate, or distributing an estate.

The process of ordering an inheritance decree is not straightforward — it requires a deep understanding of Israeli inheritance law, coordination with the Inheritance Registry (the government registry that manages will registrations and decrees), and careful verification of the request status at each stage.

Initial Process Steps

• Locating Proof of Will — If a registered will exists, it must be located in the Inheritance Registry online or through direct inquiry.
• Filing an Inheritance Decree Request — Submitting required documents (death certificate, identity documents of heirs, will if applicable, and insurance coverage).
• Checking Proof of Will Status — Monitoring the progress of the request in court or rabbinical court.
• Obtaining Final Inheritance Decree — A signed legal document that enables estate distribution and asset transfer.

Each stage requires special attention to detail and compliance with legal requirements. Errors in filing or missing documents can delay the process by months.

The Law Office of David Wasserman in Modi'in guides you through every step, from selecting the most appropriate legal path for your needs (court or rabbinical court) to obtaining the final inheritance decree and resolving all related matters.

Locating Old Inheritance Decrees and the Inheritance Registry

One of the common challenges in inheritance proceedings is locating an old inheritance decree — particularly when a will was executed many years before death. The Inheritance Registry is the central body in Israel that maintains a computerized database of all registered wills and proof of will decrees.

How to Search for an Inheritance Decree in the Inheritance Registry

You can search for an inheritance decree using the deceased's ID number through the Registry's government website or by contacting the Registry offices directly. In many cases, families do not know if a registered will exists, so a systematic search in the Registry is the essential first step.

When an existing proof of will is found, the will can be copied and used as the basis for an inheritance decree request. If no registered will exists, the estate will be divided according to general inheritance laws (or religious inheritance laws, depending on the family's choice).

Checking Inheritance Decree Request Status

After filing the inheritance decree request, it is important to monitor its progress. Israeli courts update request status through computerized systems, and you can verify whether there are additional court requirements or if a proof of will has already been issued. Rabbinical courts follow a similar process but with their own procedures.

An experienced attorney knows how to navigate between the various systems, identify potential delays, and take proactive measures to expedite the process. In some cases, additional court requirements may necessitate further evidence or legal clarifications that require experience and deep knowledge.

Comparison of Inheritance Proceedings — Court vs. Rabbinical Court

In Israel, the process of obtaining an inheritance order can be conducted through two different systems: regional courts (in civil proceedings) or rabbinical courts (in religious proceedings). The choice of appropriate procedure depends on the deceased's religion, applicable inheritance laws, and family preferences.

Choosing between the two systems is an important legal decision. The law office of David Wasserman reviews all relevant factors — family status, the deceased's religion, existence of a will, and potential disputes — to recommend the best legal path for you.

Document Requirements for Obtaining an Inheritance Order

To file an application for an inheritance order, you must prepare a complete and legally valid set of documents. Any missing or incorrect document can delay the process by weeks or months.

Essential Documents

• Official Death Certificate — issued by the Ministry of Interior, confirming the death of the deceased and the date of death.
• Identity Documents of All Heirs — each heir must be clearly identified.
• Registered Will (if applicable) — a copy from the Succession Registry, or an original signed will with witnessed signature.
• Estate Bond Insurance — financial security for potential liabilities of the estate (taxes, bank debts, other obligations).
• Income Tax Authority Certificate — regarding taxes that may apply to the estate.
• List of Estate Assets — detailed description of all assets in the estate (real property, bank accounts, securities, etc.).
• Certificate of Will Validity — if a will exists, you must prove its legality (properly signed, witnessed, and without coercion).

Courts and rabbinical courts examine every document carefully. If any document is missing or outdated, the court will issue a request (order to show cause) requesting clarification or additional documents. An experienced attorney will ensure in advance that all documents are properly prepared, saving you valuable time.

Tips for Document Updates

Identity documents must be valid (or certification from the government office that they remain valid even if expired). Death certificates must be originals or certified copies. Old wills must be located in the Succession Registry and printed formally. Any foreign documents (not in Hebrew) must be translated by an authorized translator and signed by an attorney.