Answering Your Questions — Legal Information on the Coronavirus Epidemic for Employees and Employers
Joshua Pex
Joshua Pex
Michael Soffer
I would like to recommend Attorney Yehuda Elcharar. He assisted both me and my company in a complex lawsuit. He handled negotiations that led to a favorable outcome much quicker than expected.
I am extremely pleased with choosing Attorney Elcharar. Many thanks also to the office team, Oz and Chaya, for their assistance throughout the entire process.
Thanks again ????
TarcisioePotira Freitas
I really recommend the law office's services. The service is very professional and efficient, the price is right. I am satisfied with the services I needed and happy to have known them.
Gáspár Erőss
If you need to solve any complicated legal issue in Israel, don't hesitate to contact them. Otherwise you will loose hours/days/weeks with things that they can solve in minutes. They helped me to obtain my expert working visa in Israel and even after that they responded further questions and gave me advices related to administrative issues in Israel which saved me a lot of time. Irena Rosenberg and Michael Decker worked on my case, they are very professional and helpful. They will not let you down, feel free to contact them.
lynn vonne
Excellent service, very friendly and helpful, fast responding and very patient. Highly recommend. I will choose them again next time if needed.
Michael and Ariellah Waizman
For Advocate Joshua Pex.
We were in a devastating situation when my wife received an order from the immigration office to leave Israel within 30 days, without any explanation, after we have been married and in the process for six and a half years. We heard of Advocate Pex through a friend of a friend. We contacted Mr. Pex and he was ready to help us when he heard of our situation.
The service is amazing! Always ready to assist without regard to the time it takes. The advice Mr. Pex gave us was great, such as what to do, he gave useful links, and advice about which officials to contact. The price for the service was great!
The process until we received the extension for another year for my wife was not long (3 months). Things started moving once Mr. Pex came into the picture.
We highly recommend Advocate Joshua Pex! We achieved our goal and the fear of deportation has been lifted!
Shaltiel Devorah
Mr. Joshua Pex is knowledgeable and Professional. I really appreciate his courteous and direct approach.
Schruuf
We were very pleased and content with the services of this law firm. They supported us 100% and solved our case successfully, we couldn't be happier.
Paul Prince
The team of lawyers and assistants are incredibly professional. Aiming to give their clients the advice possible regarding the normative and the law of Israel. With well trained and professional secretary at the front desk to the lawyers team, I could say that I had one of the most professional services possible. I'm super glad of choosing Joshua Pex of Law office for immigration solution, lawyers to advise in my case, to me, it is remarkable.
Michelle Long
Josh has been helping me on and off for a few years now. I have needed legal advice and assistance with immigration due to a complex situation of mine, and he has been extremely available and responsive, honest and clear about my route and how to proceed. Very much recommended!
Shurouq Hajyassin
We were very satisfied with the consultation we had.
You were very straightforward with us , You tried to help us in every way you could . we really appreciate that.
And of course the fast reply we got from you on our emails and the appointment you gave us .
You deserve more than 5 stars????
Greg Olson
We highly recommend Adv. Mike Decker and have know him for many years. He has helped our family with many battles over the years. We recently received our permanent residency after 23 years in Israel. We so much appreciate Mike’s representation of us.
Priscilla Moses
competent consulting, fast processing, reliable, warm & good team. highly recommended
Sophie Cooperman
Oded Ger did an excellent job by reviewing a modeling contract I was offered. Explained the bad clauses in the contract, and their possible consequences. Thank you for your amazing job, your professionalism, your consultation and honesty. You showed me from your experience how it can be done differently. It was the best decision choosing you as my lawyer.
I highly recommend this firm, especially Oded Ger.
Dongdiet & Nellie
We are very happy with the services. Somehow they managed to translate the law lingo into language we actually understand 😉 and their outstanding YouTube videos helped us to have a better grasp of what process we had to go through. Their patience, clear explanation and experience are very valuable. It's also very nice to know that you will receive response promptly; it made us feel we can really trust their services. We recommend all those looking for immigration lawyers to get in touch.
Eden Weiss
Extrmely friendly, professional and helpful. A big thank you to Irina especially from the Jerusalem office. Highly Recommended.
Matthias Oppliger
I have been receiving services from this Law Firm for several years now and I want to say THANK YOU to the team, especially Joshua Pex. They are doing outstanding work. The services I have received for both our Israeli non profit association but also our social business have helped us solve many issues at hand and provided solutions in complicated situations. Personally, I am grateful for support in visa issues as a foreigner living now in Israel for many years.
Yossi Montrose
Very knowledgeable and professional
YK C
We had a pleasure of working with Irena Rosenberg who assisted in getting our two U.S. born children registered in Israel and supported visa process for my wife in 2021. During the pandemic, my wife and I decided to move to Israel where I am originally from after living in the U.S. for over 20 years, but we had no idea how to go about securing visas before and after arriving in Israel. Irena is knowledgeable, reliable and competent lawyer who always had answers to all our questions which made us feel confident that everything would be fine with her assistance. We are now happily living in Israel and are so grateful to have Irena who is a genuinely nice person as our lawyer.
Israel iluz
We were very satisfied with the service of Nehama. She was very professional in all her dealings and kept us informed all the way.
We highly recommend this law firm. They proved to be reliable, efficient and pleasant to work with.
Amir Abt
The best lawyer firm I’ve had dealt with. I would like to thank Anat Levi and Ariel Galili from the Jerusalem branch for all of their efforts and patience, we could not have been Able to reach to where we are now without them
Josh W-S
The firm had a quick response to my last-minute needs, they were helpful in communicating with me in English, and they fulfilled my needs in a timely fashion.
David De La Rosa
Very friendly, professional, and effective, highly recommended
Tomer Hila Birnbach
I received a recommendation from friends about the firm, and indeed every word is correct, a service team, professional, welcoming, a fair price for the work I requested, I am satisfied
Lilian Granovsky
I can highly recommend these services!
Every time we turned to Joshua we always got a professional quick and helpful respond.
Arielle Bosch
Incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, accessible, and evident across the board that they truly care about the people they are helping. They are quick to respond, engaged, and obviously top-notch lawyers. I couldn't recommend them highly enough. Thank you, Joshua and Itamar for your help with our Joint Life Application. You were a calming energy during a storm - always breathed a sigh of relief after speaking with you. It is so difficult to get straight answers from the Misrad Hapnim, but you guys are straight shooters. I appreciate your candor and evident integrity. Hope to work with you in the future, and will send everyone I know in need of legal aid your way. Thank you for your guidance and support.
Adi Katina
Great Team. With no doubt, this office is actually thee best-leading office in Israel. Simply put, if you want your case to win, just join them, hand in your documents, and celebrate the victory.
Kindest regards,
Adi k.
Halvor Ronning
Courteous, clear, efficient service.
Stuart Safft
I am delighted to report that my wife and I have just obtained our Israeli citizenship. We will be forever grateful for all of the help, guidance and support which Ariel Galili of Decker, Pex & Co. provided through this process.
I am a Jewish, 80-year-old American, and my wife is not Jewish. We had started the process on our own back in November 2020 via the Jewish Agency and Nefesh B’Nefesh, but soon became entangled in the delays and often-changing regulations due to Covid-19. The pandemic also caused delays in obtaining the required apostilles for various documents from various state agencies and the US State Department.
We found Decker, Pex & Co. On the internet and began working with Ariel in late November 2021. Ariel did a superb job of leading us through the process, helping us to understand which documents were essential, which would most likely be required, and which, though included on the list of required documents, were rarely required. He helped us several times to understand what was likely and unlikely to occur as “the next step.” Helping us manage our expectations was extremely useful to us.
Besides his knowing the laws, regulations and procedures, Ariel also made us feel that he was truly interested in helping us to successfully work through this process in as smooth, timely, and frustration-free manner as possible.
My wife and I strongly recommend anyone planning to go through this process seriously consider hiring Decker, Pex, Ofir & Co. and, specifically, Ariel Galili.
Наталья Мажуга
Great lawyers Joshua Pex and Nechama and Michael Deker who really want to help you and I have very trustful relationships with them. All my cases they took they won. Thank you and let’s keep working together
Andreas Kelling
We have been working with Decker, Pex & Co - Law Firm in Tel Aviv for many years very well. Because we appreciated their lawyers services, we recommended businesses and individuals again and again to go there as well.
Esty A
I had a consultation with Batya and she was very helpful. She made sure I understood all the information I needed, and was patient with me in gathering documents I needed.
Joshua Pex was both an amazing human being and an inspiring human rights attorney. I reported directly to him for various activities I performed as in intern. I was impressed with his incredibly solid character. He is trustworthy, fair, and goes above and beyond to advocate for the vulnerable. He is completely trustworthy and high caliber in his work. His partners and employees are very blessed to work with him. I am honored to know them.
Heather Lebrun
Prima Lorenzo
I admire the Austrian citizenship team in Tel-Aviv branch! They deserve more then 5 stars!! They are very friendly and professional. I've got Austrian citizenship in 4 months for all family members which consists of 12 people! The entire team is very friendly and responsive. They are always answering questions and support during the process. I recommend to everyone. Was 100% satisfied.
Lauma Zariņa
This is definitely the best lawyer I know!!! very honest and super helpful he really helped me a lot dealing with immigration issues in Israel and it was very successful!
I highly recommend
Jacob Newberry
A really excellent firm. They knew exactly how to handle my situation effectively and efficiently, and we got the result I needed without much fuss. Adi Berger was a wonderful advocate for me and I am deeply grateful for her help!
Morgan Jones
The team at Decker, Pex & Co have been awesome to work with in helping our US company establish banking in Israel and in providing counsel for legal needs in Israel. I highly recommend!
Genaan Abdelall
I cannot recommend Nechama enough! Her expertise, professionalism, and dedication to her clients is unparalleled. From the moment I reached out to her, she provided clear and concise communication, and helped me navigate through a complex legal issue with ease.
Throughout the entire process, Nechama went above and beyond to ensure that I was informed and comfortable with every decision. She demonstrated a deep knowledge of the law, and was able to offer sound advice that ultimately led to a positive outcome.
What sets Nechama apart is her compassionate and empathetic approach to her clients. She truly cares about the well-being of her clients, and it shows in the way she handles every case.
If you are in need of a lawyer, I highly recommend Nechama.
Marce Ruth St. Rey
Party time in the heart, my beloved husband received his residence after so much time of battles and faith. Gratitude, God has blessed us with wonderful beings who have accompanied us, including a "precious angel" who touched our hearts, our excellent and fantastic lawyer: Maria Chernin Dekel, sweet and wonderful human being, who has guided us and stayed On our side. side in this intense legal transit whom we bless on every occasion. God bless you dear Maria, you have exceeded your professional duty by containing us and collaborating with us in hard times, very hard, for that we want to thank you publicly, you are unique!!!
We bless and thank the entire team at Decker Pex Tal Ofir Law Firm.
Sveta Vashkevich
We (myself and my husband) came to Mr. Joshua Pex – for his professional advice – and we received such human warmth and caring attitude, that our hearts melted …
His attention to our details and our situation peculiarities, combined with his professionalism and knowledge, helped us to map out what needs to be done on our part: we appreciate and recommend You, Mr. Joshua!
Dumitrascu Cristina
Best lawyer house from Israel! I couldn’t dealt with my situation without their professionalism and effectiveness. Their dedication to every legal aspect and their drive it’s how a true lawyer house can be!
Working in European market and international now, I couldn’t dare to let myself wide my wings on countries unknown to me. Definitely they’ll be the lawyers representing me, my business at every international aspect and on personal development.
When you hear Decker,Pex,Ofir &Co, you hear 10+ class services, luxurious professionals, confidentiality and exclusive attention to your needs.
Sergei m Vashkevich
We came to Mr. Joshua with so many questions (and most of all, with so many concerns and worries) …
When we explained our case to him, first of all, he calmed us down and helped us to see the big picture, which took away our fears;
Then he presented us with a detailed explanation and a few options to explore, and a timeline, how things work and necessary steps to undertake on our part,
We thank and highly recommend Mr. Joshua for showing us so much empathy, care and professionalism (!)
Kfir Cohen
We were searching for a law firm that will be honest with us and really work hard for a satisfying result, it wasn't an easy task
We found them online; they were the only law firm from all of our searchings which were completely honest and NOT gave us just what we wanted to hear
Using them guaranteed honesty above all. A legal team that is friendly and cares for a superb result
They really care about helping their customers without any other interest
Nadia gave us service behind what we expected; she was professional which lead to fast and easy process with great result
We definitely recommend using them
Alexander P Gutterman
EU PASSPORT ! Big news! Thanks to Michael Decker and the other good people at the law office, as well as to the virtue of my ancestors, the cruelty of the Inquisition, reparations issued in the Iberian Peninsula, and etc, I am delighted to be on track for Portuguese and European Union Citizenship! A truly incredible development and one which brings me deep joy.
Unpaid vacation, unemployment benefits, sick leave, annual leave, layoffs – the spread of Coronavirus in Israel brings many challenges and uncertainties in the most basic issues regarding labor laws. In this article, which was published on March 24, 2020, we have gathered the most recent available legal information regarding the Coronavirus.
We hope this article will answer the most common questions about the crisis on the part of Israeli employees and employers. We must however emphasize the the most up-to-date guidelines and emergency regulations are published on government websites.
Our law offices located in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, specialize in labor law. Our firm provides comprehensive legal advice and guidance to employees and employers on matters such as employee rights, pensions, layoff procedures, personal and collective agreements, and more.
When and How Can Employees on Unpaid Vacation Receive Unemployment Benefits?
Following the recognition of the Coronavirus as a national crisis, the Israeli Employment Service published a notice on unpaid vacation following the national crisis. When employees go on unpaid leave for 30 days or more, they can register on the Employment Service website and apply with the Employment Office in order to be eligible for unemployment benefits. Unemployment benefits are claimed and paid by the National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi), which states that when workers are put on sick leave due to a national crisis, they can receive unemployment benefits, even if they do not use all their vacation days. Employees are required to declare that the unpaid vacation is determined per the request of the employer and, to the best of their knowledge, the employer intends to re-employ them later on. The declaration is an appendix to the Employment Offices’s notice.
In Light of Passover Coming, Is There an Obligation to Give a Holiday Gift to Employees on Unpaid Vacation Due to COVID-19 crisis?
When leaving on unpaid vacation, you are not disconnecting, but rather entering a period of suspension. Since there are no all-encompassing guidelines on the law for holiday gifts and bonuses for workers, the question of obligation depends, amongst other things, on the specific agreements between employers and employees. We would cautiously say that, as a rule, during an extended period of unpaid vacation time, employers are not obligated to give their employees a holiday bonus. Yet, this obligation may exist by virtue of a work contract between both parties, or orders and procedures about certain sectors, and sometimes by virtue of a workplace custom over the past years.
In light of these new circumstances, which have yet to be discussed in case law, each case must be examined individually in order to determine whether there is an obligation to give a holiday bonus to employees on unpaid vacation due to Coronavirus, and it is better to consult with an expert lawyer. We have expanded upon this in other articles on our website.
Is it Possible to Reduce the Size of the Workforce Due to the Crisis?
It is better to do this with the consent of the employees. It is possible to reach an agreement on the temporary period of workforce reduction, in light of the circumstances. It is very important that any agreement between the employer and employees will be made in writing, signed by the employees. When employers wish to reduce the workforce, as a rule they can do so, as long as there are no legal barriers (such as regarding pregnant employees), through collective or personal agreements with the employees or through another legal obligation.
It is important that employers verify the state of affairs prior to making such a decision, and it is recommended that they seek counsel from experts in labor laws. Regarding the employees, if they do not agree to reducing their position, they can proceed to file for severance pay upon resignation. In such an event, it is also extremely important to operate in accordance with the law and seek advice if necessary.
Can Workers Be Required to Come to Work During the Crisis?
This is possible as long as long as they follow the latest emergency regulations of the Israeli Ministry of Health. We must emphasize that in light of the regulations being updated every few days, things are subject to change in this regard, and it is important to follow the government’s guidelines. Additionally, it is recommended to reach an agreement, as much as possible, with employees about using annual vacation days or working from home. For the sake of clarity, we emphasize that this is in reference to healthy employees, since in no way are workers who are in quarantine obligated to work. On the other hand, an agreement about working from home during this time can be reached, while workers remain healthy in isolation.
When Does the Obligation to Remain in Quarantine Apply and How is it Defined for Employees?
At the time this article was being written, starting March 9, 2020 self-quarantining for 14 days is required of Israelis returning from any foreign country, as well as for those in close contact with verified patients. In accordance with the order issued by the Ministry of Health, the quarantine period is considered as sick leave for employees who are forced to stay in isolation, as well as for workers whose children (up until age 16) are in quarantine. For this period, a comprehensive medical form must be filled, as per the order issued by the Ministry of Health.
Is Compulsory Annual Leave During the Coronavirus Epidemic Legally Possible?
The Labor Court has established, in a long series of rulings, that the purpose of the annual leave law is for the employees “to rest, relax, disengage from the daily work routine, to change the atmosphere, and to renew their strength” (as ruled in the Nessuah Zannex & Company Ltd. case in the Israeli National Labor Court). The question is whether vacation centered on these present circumstances can be viewed as having met the intent of the law before having been ruled on. In previous cases dealing with this issue in various circumstances, worker’s compensation was terminated or it was decided that the vacation days used should not be deducted from their allotment of vacation days.
It is very important that employees and employers are aware that compulsory leave may now be considered as a worsening of employment conditions and counter to the law’s intent, and this could have legal ramifications. For more on this, see additional articles on our site.
Can Employees Be Fired Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic?
This is possible in principle, but it is important to take note of the employees’ rights as in every employment termination process. This includes giving employees advanced notice of termination, and then holding a hearing prior to firing them.
The Advanced Notice Law states that when employers do not give advanced notice to their employees as legally prescribed, they must pay compensation in an amount equivalent to their salary for the period for which no advanced notice was given. There is also a need to pay severance to employees in accordance with the Severance Pay Law. The same applies to employees on unpaid vacation due to Coronavirus. On the other hand, for employees who are in quarantine, the public health order clearly states that they may not be fired.
Contact a Lawyer Specializing in Labor Law
If you have additional questions concerning the Coronavirus outbreak, we would be happy to help. Our office specializes in labor law and in providing a comprehensive legal response to employees and employers. We can be reached at the phone numbers and email address listed below. We wish all of you full health, and we hope for a full return to routine as soon as possible!
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