Complexities of Inheritance, Probate, and Estate Administration in Israel

Inheritance, Probate, and Estate Administration in Israel require precise administration. The property of a deceased individual is called their Estate. The Succession Law governs a person’s estate in Israel after their passing. A person’s estate includes their property at the time of death and any rights, actions, and liabilities, if any. The estate and the heirs to the estate may not absolve themselves of any actions the deceased performed before their death. For instance, if the testator sold his car to a third party prior to his death, the estate cannot withdraw from the sale.

Will Execution and Estate Distribution under Israeli Law

The estate of a deceased individual in Israel is meted out according to a person’s will (if an Israeli will exists), after a probate order has been issued, or according to the specific provisions of Israeli Succession Law if there is no will or if the will is being disputed. In Israel’s Inheritance, Probate, and Estate Administration, the estate is distributed to the heirs. In Israel, an estate manager is required in certain Inheritance and Probate, Estate Administration cases. This procedure is standard where debts are attached to the estate or objections to the probate or inheritance order have been submitted.

The Importance of Legal Assistance in Estate Administration

Dealing with inheritance and estate distribution in Israel is a delicate matter. The distribution of an estate, especially when substantial or disputed, can have a time-consuming impact on the heirs. This underscores the importance of seeking legal assistance from an Israeli law firm specializing in and experienced in Inheritance, Probate, and Estate Administration. A diligent lawyer can help navigate and simplify processes of estate management and distribution in a reasonable manner. It’s crucial to remember that professional legal advice is essential, especially when an estate manager is required.

The Role and Responsibilities of an Estate Manager

The estate manager plays a role in the probate and estate administration process. Their responsibilities include gathering all the deceased’s assets (the estate), settling any outstanding debts if any attached to the estate, and distributing the remaining estate among the heirs. According to section 97 of Israeli Succession Law, the estate manager is empowered to take ‘all that is needed to fulfill his duty, except for specific actions that require special court permission. The expenses incurred during this process, including the manager’s fee, are covered by the estate after the court decides on the matter.

It is crucial to note that these expenses precede the heirs’ right to the estate in Israel. Before the probate order and distribution of the estate in Israel, the heirs are not responsible for debts beyond the estate’s statement of assets according to Israeli inheritance law.

How Will an Estate Manager Advise With a Probate and Estate Administration in Israel?

An estate manager will take the following actions, among others, upon assuming their role:

• Open a separate trust bank account to manage the estate.
• Chronicle and track all income and expenses of the estate.
• Pay all outstanding debts and expenses of the estate.
• Distribute the remainder of the estate among the heirs after paying debts and expenses.
• Take legal action against an heir or any third party if needed.
• File a deposition to a court detailing the inventory (including the value of the property given to each heir at the time of distribution) within thirty days after the distribution of the estate.

Tax Implications of Israeli Estate Distribution

There is no inheritance or estate or death tax in Israel. However, many heirs are non-residents of Israel and hold dual citizenship, which may expose them to tax brackets in their domicile.

These regulations change frequently; thus, it is paramount to consult an experienced Israeli probate attorney to guide you through the process before determining the right strategy of which steps to choose to safeguard one’s legacy.

Please Contact Us for A Complimentary Consultation

We are headquartered in Tel Aviv, with offices in New York and Los Angeles, California, and Florida. We invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with our firm to learn how we can simplify your  Inheritance, Probate, and Estate Administration in Israel. Early consultation can help you take proactive steps to protect your equity.

We represent international clients from the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, Europe, and Israel. Please contact us from the US or Canada at +1 (888) 923-0022 or in Israel at +972 3-905-5478 to schedule a discussion regarding your Inheritance, Probate, and Estate administration in Israel case.

References From Our Clients