A Jewish bill of divorce, known as a "GET," is a formal document that must be given by the husband to the wife to effectuate a divorce under Jewish law. The process of obtaining and giving a get is detailed and must be carried out according to strict halachic (Jewish legal) standards. Here's an overview of the process:

 

1. "Decision to Divorce": Both parties must decide to divorce and agree to pursue a GET.

2. "Consult a Rabbi or Bet Din (Jewish Court)": It is customary to consult a competent rabbi or bet din that is experienced in the laws of gittin (Jewish divorce). They can guide the couple through the process.

3. "Appointment of a Scribe and Witnesses": A qualified scribe, known as a "SOFER," is appointed to write the GET. Two kosher (qualified) witnesses must also be present.

4. "Writing the Get": The get must be written according to specific rules and guidelines, including the use of particular ink and parchment. The SOFER writes it by hand, including the names of the husband and wife, the date, and location, along with other technical details.

5. "Husband's Declaration": The husband must make a formal declaration of his intent to divorce, usually before the bet din.

6. "Delivery of the Get": The husband physically gives the get to the wife in the presence of the witnesses. This is done with specific wording and actions.

7. "Acceptance by the Wife": The wife must willingly accept the get, taking physical possession of it.

8. "Verification": The get is often checked by a rabbi or expert to ensure it is written correctly.

9. "Cutting or Tearing the Get": To prevent reuse, the get is typically torn or cut. This symbolizes the finality of the divorce.

10. "Recording the Divorce": The bet din or overseeing authority often records the divorce for community records.

11. "Waiting Period": According to Jewish law, the wife must wait a specific period (usually three months) before remarrying, to rule out any potential confusion regarding paternity issues in case of pregnancy.

12. "Civil Divorce": Obtaining a get does not replace the need for a civil divorce in most jurisdictions. Legal proceedings should be pursued in parallel to ensure that the divorce is recognized by the state.

 

It is essential to note that the process must be conducted with great care, sensitivity, and in accordance with halacha. Failure to obtain a get, or to obtain one improperly, can lead to severe consequences in Jewish law, particularly for the wife. It is strongly recommended to consult with a knowledgeable rabbi or bet din to guide the process.