international family law
In Israel, prenuptial agreements—also known as premarital or marriage agreements—are generally recognized and enforceable under the law. These agreements are designed to outline the financial arrangements and responsibilities of each spouse in the event of divorce or death. The Israeli legal system allows couples to enter into such agreements before marriage or even during the marriage, provided certain formal requirements are met.
For a prenuptial agreement to be legally binding in Israel, it must be approved and authorized by an official authority. This can be done in one of the following ways:
This requirement ensures that both parties fully understand the implications of the agreement and that it was entered into freely, without coercion or undue influence.
Simply signing a prenuptial agreement without official authorization is not enough to guarantee its enforceability. The Israeli courts place significant importance on the fact that the agreement was formally approved. This process also involves confirming that both parties gave their informed consent and were aware of their legal rights and obligations under the agreement.
Ideally, a prenuptial agreement should be signed well before the wedding to allow time for consideration and legal advice. However, Israeli law also permits postnuptial agreements—those signed after the marriage has taken place—as long as they meet the same legal standards and receive official approval.
Prenuptial agreements are an important tool for couples who wish to protect their financial interests and avoid future disputes. In Israel, these agreements are generally enforceable, but they must be authorized by a recognized authority to have legal standing. Whether handled by a notary, a registrar, or a court, this step is essential to ensure the agreement is valid and binding under Israeli law.