immigration to Australia, Canada, and the UK – What You Need to Know Before Making the Big Move The dream of relocating abroad has become increasingly popular in recent years. Young professionals, families, and business owners alike are seriously considering building a new future overseas. The three most popular destinations for Israelis are Australia, Canada, and the UK, each offering unique advantages but also featuring complex immigration systems and strict requirements. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of immigration to each country, available pathways, what you need to check in advance — and why quality legal guidance from the very beginning is essential. Why Consider Immigration? High quality of life Career opportunities and rewarding income Advanced education and healthcare systems Safe environment for children Clear tax policies and personalized treatment for immigrants However, alongside these opportunities, the immigration process is complex and challenging. It is highly recommended to work with professionals familiar with the legal intricacies of each destination country. Immigration to Australia  Australia offers a variety of immigration pathways, though the process is considered one of the most stringent in the world. Main Pathways: Skilled Visa – for in-demand occupations based on an updated occupation list. Business and Investment Visas – for business owners and entrepreneurs with a proven track record. Family Visas – for spouses, children, and parents. Study and Temporary Work Visas – usually requiring a follow-up pathway to permanent residency. Key Considerations: Applicants must meet a Points Test, including age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and more. Translated documents, medical exams, and sometimes professional certifications from Australia are required. The process can take several months or even over a year, depending on the pathway. Immigration to Canada  Canada is considered immigrant-friendly, with relatively open policies and numerous government programs. Main Pathways: Express Entry – the primary system for skilled professionals. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – immigration via specific provinces. Family Sponsorship – family reunification. Startup Visa / Work Permits – for entrepreneurs and investors. Advantages: High points for education, experience, and English/French proficiency. Applications can often be submitted without a job offer. Permanent residency (PR) can be obtained relatively quickly. Key Considerations: Immigration to Quebec follows a completely separate system. Some programs require proof of financial means, education, and document validation. Legal guidance is especially important when dealing with federal and provincial authorities. Immigration to the UK  Since Brexit, the UK’s immigration policy has changed significantly. Clear pathways exist, but requirements are relatively strict. Main Pathways: Skilled Worker Visa – for in-demand occupations with a recognized sponsor. Business Visas – including entrepreneurs and startup founders. Student Visa – for young people and students wishing to stay after their studies. Family Visas – for spouses and immediate relatives of citizens/residents. Key Points: IELTS English proficiency is required, sometimes along with professional recognition (regulation). There is a minimum income threshold for work visa applicants. Transition from temporary status to permanent residency requires meeting conditions over time. When Should You Consult an Immigration Lawyer? When you want to identify the most suitable immigration pathway. If there is family complexity or a history of visa refusals. When you have a business or investment and want to ensure compliance. If you need to submit legal documents, affidavits, or powers of attorney. To avoid errors that could delay or invalidate your application. Summary Immigration is not just bureaucracy — it is a life-changing decision.Each country sets different requirements, uses a different legal system, and often has cultural dynamics that require careful navigation. Whether you dream of Australia’s green landscapes, urban life in Toronto, or an international career in London — precise legal guidance, with deep knowledge of both Israel and the destination country, is the key to navigating the process confidently. Keywords:Immigration Lawyer | Immigration to Canada | UK Work Visa | Immigration from Israel to Australia | Legal Relocation | Assistance with Permanent Residenc

Family law is one of the most sensitive areas of law – not only because of its legal and regulatory complexity, but primarily due to its direct and profound impact on the personal, financial, and emotional lives of everyone involved. In Israel, family law exists at a unique intersection of civil and religious law, creating a complex framework of statutes, authorities, and legal issues that require in-depth understanding — and usually, personalized legal guidance. In this article, we explore the key areas of family law in Israel, common challenges, and how an experienced lawyer can make the difference between a stressful legal battle and a fair, balanced agreement. What Is Family Law? Family law governs the legal relationships among family members — including spouses, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents. Key areas include: Divorce and annulment Property division and child custody Prenuptial and divorce agreements Spousal and child support Guardianship and enduring powers of attorney Wills, inheritance, and estate management Recognition of paternity or maternity Legal recognition of marital status (including common-law relationships) Divorce – A Sensitive Process with Legal Implications 1. Where to File – Rabbinical Court or Family Court? In Israel, divorce proceedings can be initiated in either the Rabbinical Court or the Family Court. Typically, the court where the first claim is filed determines the framework for the remainder of the proceedings — a phenomenon known as the “race for jurisdiction.” It is therefore important to act quickly and strategically. 2. Property Division Under the Property Relations Law, assets accumulated during marriage are usually divided equally, unless a prenuptial agreement specifies otherwise. Legal guidance is essential, especially when dealing with unregistered assets, inheritances, or family businesses. 3. Child Custody and Visitation Since the reform establishing joint parental responsibility, there is an emphasis on fair division of parenting time, with the child’s best interests as the primary consideration. Custody decisions have emotional, financial, and educational consequences, so careful preparation is key. 4. Child and Spousal Support Child support obligations fall on the father in Israel, even when children spend part of the time with him. Recent case law reflects a trend toward proportional distribution based on income and parenting time. It is crucial to verify the current legal position. Agreements Between Spouses – Preventing Conflict Legal agreements can help prevent disputes and clarify rights and obligations before, during, or after a relationship: Prenuptial Agreement – Typically executed before or at the beginning of marriage, outlining property division in case of separation. Divorce Agreement – Covers all relevant matters: property, children, and support. Cohabitation Agreement – Especially relevant for unmarried couples or common-law partners. All agreements must receive legal validation (by court or notary) to be binding. Guardianship and Enduring Powers of Attorney If a person loses legal capacity due to illness or age, a guardian may be appointed to make decisions on their behalf. Alternatively, one can prepare an Enduring Power of Attorney in advance, allowing trusted individuals to manage personal, financial, or medical affairs if the person becomes incapable. This is a powerful tool for ensuring personal wishes are respected and is strongly recommended to arrange in advance. Wills and Inheritance – Planning Ahead to Prevent Disputes Although it can be uncomfortable to consider, early estate planning is the best way to prevent disputes among heirs. In Israel, any individual may draft a valid will specifying how assets will be distributed after death. Available options include: Witnessed will Handwritten will Oral will (in extreme circumstances) Will before an authority (judge, registrar, or notary) Without a will, inheritance is distributed according to the Inheritance Law, which may not reflect the testator’s personal wishes. Legal Representation in Family Law – Essential, Not Optional Family law touches deeply personal and emotional matters: parenthood, property, feelings, autonomy, and dignity. Representation by an experienced and sensitive family law attorney is crucial for achieving fair, efficient, and respectful outcomes. A lawyer not only presents legal arguments but also protects your rights, safeguards your children, and helps you make informed decisions rather than reacting under emotional stress. Conclusion Family law in Israel is complex, sensitive, and nuanced.The best way to navigate emotionally charged family situations is not to face them alone.With proper legal guidance, it is possible to turn a difficult separation into a fair agreement, ensure clear inheritance rights, and maintain respectful relationships even as family dynamics change. Keywords:Family Law in Israel | Divorce Lawyer | Prenuptial Agreement | Child Support | Joint Custody | Wills and Inheritance | Enduring Power of Attorney | Guardianship | Family Mediation

Thinking about death and inheritance is not easy for most people. However, early planning of how assets will be distributed can prevent disputes, ensure that the deceased’s wishes are respected, and spare family members lengthy and costly legal proceedings. In Israel, inheritance matters are governed by the Inheritance Law, 1965, which applies to any person who passed away while being an Israeli resident or who left assets located in Israel. In this article, we review the key legal principles of inheritance law in Israel, the different types of wills, the meaning of a probate order, what happens when there is no will, and the legal tools available to protect heirs’ rights. Inheritance by Law vs. Inheritance by Will Inheritance According to Law (Intestate Succession) When a person passes away without leaving a valid will, their estate is distributed among relatives according to the priority rules set out in the Inheritance Law. Generally, the surviving spouse is entitled to a portion of the estate (including household assets), while the remaining estate is divided among the children or other relatives, based on clearly defined statutory rules. Important note:Common-law spouses, children born outside of marriage, or half-siblings may be included—or excluded—from inheritance rights depending on the specific circumstances and relevant case law. Inheritance According to a Will When a valid will exists, it prevails over the default provisions of the Inheritance Law, provided it was drafted in accordance with legal requirements. An individual is free to distribute their assets as they wish — including to non-family members, friends, employees, or charitable organizations. Types of Wills Recognized in Israel Israeli law recognizes four primary types of wills: Handwritten Will Written entirely in the testator’s own handwriting, dated and signed. No witnesses are required. Will in the Presence of Witnesses The most common form. Signed by the testator before two witnesses, who must also sign the document. Will Before an Authority Made before a judge, registrar, or notary. Considered particularly secure and difficult to challenge. Oral Will (Deathbed Will) Declared verbally before two witnesses, permitted only in extreme circumstances such as imminent death or terminal illness. Professional recommendation:Drafting a will with the assistance of an experienced attorney and using clear, precise language significantly reduces the risk of misinterpretation or future invalidation. Probate Order vs. Inheritance Order – What Is the Difference? Probate Order A formal request submitted to the Registrar of Inheritance Affairs to confirm the validity of a will and grant it legal effect. Without a probate order, the estate cannot be distributed according to the will. Inheritance Order Requested when no will exists. This order authorizes the distribution of the estate according to statutory inheritance rules. In both cases, any interested party may file an objection, for example, if they believe the will was executed under undue influence or when the testator lacked mental capacity. Objections to a Will – When Is It Relevant? A will may be challenged on several legal grounds, including: The testator lacked legal or mental capacity at the time the will was made The will was executed under pressure, coercion, or undue influence A later will exists The will does not meet formal legal requirements (e.g., missing signatures, date, or witnesses) It is crucial to consult an attorney specializing in wills and inheritance law to assess whether there is a valid legal basis for an objection and whether it can be proven in court. Additional Legal Planning Tools Trusts Assets may be transferred to a trustee to manage them for the benefit of others — such as minor children, family members with disabilities, or charitable purposes. Trusts offer significant flexibility and control. International Inheritance and Tax Planning When assets are located outside Israel (e.g., foreign real estate, bank accounts, or investments), it is essential to consider foreign legal and tax implications and seek advice from an attorney experienced in cross-border inheritance matters. Mutual Wills Between Spouses Spouses may execute mutual or reciprocal wills, often providing for asset distribution only after both spouses pass away, subject to statutory restrictions on future amendments. Why You Should Prepare a Will Now Many people postpone drafting a will, assuming there is plenty of time. In reality: The future is uncertain, and the absence of a will may harm loved ones A will helps prevent disputes and family conflicts It allows asset distribution based on real personal needs — not general legal defaults Conclusion Inheritance is not only a financial matter — it is about dignity, continuity, clarity, and the prevention of conflict.Through early legal planning, a properly drafted will, and professional legal guidance, you can ensure that your wishes are honored, legal disputes are avoided, and your estate is managed exactly as you intended. Keywords:Wills and Inheritance Lawyer | Drafting a Will in Israel | Objection to a Will | Probate Order | Inheritance Order | Inheritance Without a Will | Estate Planning