A Jewish marriage is considered a holy institution, in which God partners with the bride and groom. Marriage however, is subject to human nature and as such, it can result in either success or failure. We pray for success in each marriage, and we grieve when a Jewish marriage fails. Nonetheless, divorce is a reality.

It is vital to be educated in the particulars of Jewish divorce, because Jewish divorce, like Jewish marriage and all aspects of Jewish life, is governed by halakhah. Halakhah, with regard to Jewish divorce, provides the husband with disproportionate power to effect change. Most Jewish men recognize their obligation to give a Get and do so willingly and quickly. When they do not act appropriately, such inaction can result in a woman being rendered an agunah, a chained woman, who must remain in a dead marriage.

JOFA's aim is to work with husbands, wives, rabbis and communities, so that men and women can marry with security. We strive to eliminate the incidence of iggun in the event of the dissolution of a marriage. We take this idealistic stand knowing that it will take time to alleviate this serious problem. Until that day, JOFA's goal is to help educate the community about the divorce process and iggun, and particularly, to help parties to a Jewish divorce make informed decisions as they proceed through the beit din system. Obtaining a divorce is a highly emotional process, and people are often at their most vulnerable during this time. We hope that this Guide will educate litigants, and help reduce their stress as they navigate this difficult process.

This guidebook is not intended to replace consultation with a rabbi or an attorney, nor is it intended to give legal or halakhic advice.

JOFA does not assume any responsibility for actions taken by any person as a result of information in this Guidebook.

The inclusion of a beit din in the Comparison Grid does not constitute and should not be viewed as an endorsement by JOFA.