An Open Letter to the Jewish Community,

A divorce is one of the most traumatic events in the human experience.  A Jewish divorce process involves the granting of a Get which can lead to additional stressful concerns.  This is true where a Get is freely given.  How much more is this true when a Get is improperly withheld or used as a bargaining chip.

As a rabbi for 25 years, I have participated in hundreds of Get proceedings.  As an attorney and mediator, I have participated in tens of arbitration and mediation sessions.  The system works best when the parties are able to communicate freely and exercise mature decision-making.  The system breaks down when parties lose sight of legal obligations and fail to act in an equitable and judicious manner.  At such times, the importance of proper advice and representation is paramount.

I am a great proponent of divorce mediation, where this is possible.  Mediation reduces stress, cost, and wear-and-tear on all family members.  I strongly recommend such a course in all situations.  Where this is not possible, however, I urge the parties to educate themselves on all aspects of the secular and religious dimensions of the divorce process.  Getting proper guidance is of paramount importance.

In my career, I have served as a Menahel (administrator) of a Bait Din (Jewish Court), as well as a Divorce Mediator and Arbitrator. As an attorney, I have Bar Memberships in several states.  I am available to aid you as either a divorce mediator or divorce consultant.  I am willing to conduct short phone consultations without any cost.  I am willing to help you in the Bait Din process which leads to the granting of a Get.  Finally, I am willing to serve as your advocate to ensure that you are getting the best professional help from your legal representative.

I feel that the Get process has fallen prey to some abuse due to the shortcomings of human beings.  It is my commitment to you to ensure that propriety and decency will assume a new focus as you go through your Get process.

I have established relationships with other organizations that deal with the Get process.  Feel free to call me if you need a referral to an organization which might deal with your particularized need. There are many willing to serve you.  Do not hesitate to seek the help you may require.

Very Truly Yours,

Rabbi Martin Rosenfeld, J.D., Ed.M.