Does Jewish law permit divorce?

Yes, Jewish law has allowed divorce for thousands of years, viewing it as a sad but sometimes necessary step. Unlike some faith traditions, Judaism does not see divorce as forbidden.

What is a Get in Jewish divorce?

In many Orthodox communities, the Get is a handwritten religious divorce document, traditionally prepared by a trained scribe and given by the husband to the wife. It's the best-known form of Jewish divorce, but it isn't the only approach across Jewish life. In Liberal, Reform and Progressive Judaism, the position may be different. Some communities may treat the civil divorce as enough to show the marriage has ended, while others may recognise the religious divorce without following the same formal steps used in Orthodox practice.

Why does a Get matter before entering a new relationship?

In Orthodox Jewish law, a woman who enters a new relationship without first receiving a Get may still be regarded as married. That can mean the new relationship is treated as adulterous in religious terms, even if the civil divorce has already been finalised.

How to get a Jewish divorce?

1) Contact your Beth Din: Reach out to your local rabbinical court to begin proceedings and ask any questions you have. 2) Submit the application: Both husband and wife provide their details and confirm their intention to divorce. 3) The Get is written: A trained scribe prepares the document under the court's supervision, naming both parties specifically. 4) The Get is delivered: In the presence of witnesses, the husband gives the Get to the wife, who accepts it. 5) Confirmation is issued: The Beth Din provides a certificate, known as a Petur, confirming the divorce is complete.

What role does the Beth Din play in Jewish divorce rules?

In Orthodox and many Conservative communities, a religious marriage can only be ended through a rabbinical court known as the Beth Din. Some Reform or Progressive communities may place less emphasis on this formal process, or handle things differently. Because of that, it helps to seek guidance based on your own tradition. Your rabbi or community can clarify what applies to you, and a specialist family lawyer can help you bring the religious and civil sides together.

What's the difference between civil and religious divorce in the UK?

A civil divorce, granted by the courts, legally ends your marriage in the eyes of the state. A religious divorce, through the Get, ends it in the eyes of Jewish law. One doesn't replace the other, and a civil divorce on its own isn't enough under Jewish law.

What happens if one spouse refuses to cooperate with a Get?

In Orthodox practice, the Get is traditionally given by the husband, so the process runs most smoothly when both spouses cooperate. Complications can arise, though, if one party refuses to take part.

What other protections exist if a Get is being withheld?

If a Get is being withheld, the Divorce (Religious Marriages) Act 2002 is only part of the picture. In recent years, there's been growing recognition that refusing to cooperate with a religious divorce can, in some cases, be part of coercive and controlling behaviour. That matters because coercive and controlling behaviour is recognised in UK law as a form of domestic abuse, which is a criminal offence. Depending on the circumstances, withholding a Get may be relevant not only within the religious process, but also in the wider legal response to domestic abuse.

You are here: Home » Marriage

Call us: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7pm, Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm

Featured Post

Cohabitation | July 23rd 2026

What to know when buying a house together when you’re not married

If you're buying a house together but are not married, the law offers you less automatic protection than it does ...

Help & advice categories

Latest Posts

Newsletter Sign Up

What type of information are you looking for? (Optional)

Stay ahead, stay informed

Podcast:

Video: