The Rackman Center represented A, an Agunah (a woman chained to an unwanted marriage) for over 14 years, in a civil damages claim at Israel’s civil court, where she received compensation of NIS 5,000 for each month that her husband refused to grant her a Get (a Jewish bill of divorce). The total compensation now amounts to nearly NIS 800,000 (about $215,000).
A’s husband has refused to give her a Get for over 14 years, despite a Rabbinical Court ruling that obligated him to do so. He was imprisoned for his continued refusal, but was released after a few years due to poor health. During this time, he continued justifying his refusal to the Rabbinical Court. At the last hearing he suddenly asked to return to live with his wife, claiming that he would bring her warmth and love, despite their prolonged separation.
The Rackman Center understood that the Rabbinical Court had exhausted its powers over the husband to either grant the Get or to prevent him from petitioning them endlessly. Thinking about her financial future and with a desire to regain power over her life, A’ decided to file a damages claim in Israel’s civil court to recover financial compensation for the losses she suffered over many years as an Agunah. Further, as a member of the ultra-orthodox community, she has been prevented from entering into another relationship.
After two lengthy hearings, the civil court decided in A’s favor. This will allow A’ to be able to regain some control over her life and financial future. Unfortunately, the Rabbinical Courts have failed to help A’ obtain her real freedom, and she remains an Agunah. Her story is another painful reminder, especially on the eve of Passover, that in the realm of family law, women’s freedom in Israel cannot be taken for granted.
