Family Attorney
Restraining Orders in Israel — Legal Protection When You Need It Most
A protection order is the primary legal tool for addressing domestic violence in Israel. Through this order, the court can require the removal of a violent spouse from the shared residence, from the other spouse’s workplace, and from any other location where the victim may be present. This article explains the types of protective orders available under Israeli law, how to obtain them, and why experienced legal representation is essential in these sensitive proceedings.
By Igal Mor, Adv. & Notary
Accuracy in Legal Advice. Excellence in legal support.
We acknowledge that domestic violence affects individuals of all genders. While this article may use gendered language at times for clarity, the legal protections described apply equally to all victims regardless of gender.
Protection Orders Under Israeli Law
Domestic violence is one of the most severe social phenomena, causing lasting physical and psychological harm to spouses and children. To provide immediate protection for victims, the Israeli legislature enacted the Prevention of Domestic Violence Law, 1991. Under this law, a victim may petition the Family Court to order the removal of a violent family member when there is a genuine threat of physical danger. Most applications for protection orders are filed by spouses suffering from violence directed at them or their children. If the court determines that the application is justified, it imposes prohibitions and restrictions on the violent spouse, such as maintaining a minimum distance from the residence and from the victim’s workplace. Due to the urgency of these cases, the court may issue an initial order in the presence of only one party (ex parte), followed by a hearing with both parties within seven days. A protection order is valid for up to three months and may be extended when necessary.
Police Restraining Orders
Before or in parallel with applying to the court for a protection order, it is critical to file a complaint with the police to initiate criminal proceedings against the violent family member. Once a complaint has been filed, a police officer may issue a temporary police restraining order for up to 30 days. This order can impose various restrictions on the violent spouse, including removal from the shared residence and a prohibition on contacting the victim. A common question is whether a police restraining order can substitute for a court-issued protection order. The answer is no — the police remedy is temporary and limited in duration. The court, by contrast, is authorized to issue a protection order for three months, with the possibility of extension when circumstances require it. It is important to note that violating a police restraining order constitutes a criminal offense punishable by up to two years of imprisonment.
An Order to Prevent Threatening Harassment
In some cases, domestic violence takes the form of verbal abuse, threats, and harassment rather than physical violence. In these situations, the appropriate legal remedy is an order to prevent threatening harassment. Like a protection order, this order can initially be granted ex parte to protect the victim, with a hearing in the presence of both parties scheduled within seven days. Both the Family Court and the Magistrate’s Court have jurisdiction to issue this type of order, since the parties do not need to be family members to qualify. If the court grants the petition, it may impose various restrictions on the harassing party, including maintaining a minimum distance from the victim and a ban on any form of contact. The order is valid for up to six months and can be extended multiple times, up to a maximum of one year — or in exceptional cases, up to two years. Violating this order is a criminal offense punishable by up to two years of imprisonment.
Are You Experiencing Domestic Violence?
We invite you to contact us for legal advice to explore all available options. Domestic violence can and must be stopped. If you are experiencing domestic violence, we can help. Reach out to us immediately — including via WhatsApp at any time.
Mor & Co. Law Firm has extensive experience handling cases involving domestic violence and protective orders. We can help you navigate the crisis and the legal process in the best way possible. Our attorneys provide skilled, confidential representation for victims of domestic violence. For legal advice regarding restraining orders and protection from domestic violence, contact us today by phone at 02-595-3322 or WhatsApp at 050-443-1343.