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Free Legal Aid for Ethiopian-Israelis — Who Provides It and How to Access in Jerusalem
TEBEKA association, the Government Legal Aid Bureau, and university law clinics provide free representation and advice to Ethiopian-Israelis. TEBEKA has no income test.
About Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel's capital, hosts a large Israeli-Ethiopian community concentrated historically in the Gondar neighbourhood in the north and with significant presence in Kiryat HaYovel and other areas. The city is home to the Centre for Ethiopian Jewish Heritage and several traditional synagogues led by kessim, alongside a broad housing market.
TEBEKA — The Primary Resource
TEBEKA (the Israeli Association for Ethiopian Jews) is the main legal organisation for Ethiopian-Israelis. They handle employment discrimination, BTL benefit appeals, family law, civil-rights cases, and housing disputes. The first meeting is always free with no income test. Call 1-800-20-20-16 or visit tebeka.org.il.
Government Legal Aid Bureau
The Ministry of Justice Legal Aid Bureau provides free advice and representation based on an income test (single earner up to approx. ₪7,000 net/month in 2025). Covers criminal (mandatory), civil, administrative, and family law. Contact via any District Court or call 1-700-706-060.
University Law Clinics
Tel Aviv, Hebrew University, Bar-Ilan, and Haifa universities run free supervised clinics covering human rights, poverty law, family, and housing. Search "קליניקה משפטית [city]" for contact details.
What to Bring
Bring your ID/teudat oleh, all relevant documents (contract, termination letter, BTL notice), a brief timeline of events, and prepared questions.
About Jerusalem
Related rights
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.
Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women
Any woman suffering domestic violence can receive a protection order the same day — regardless of visa status, length of marriage, or financial situation. The state must provide emergency housing and living expenses.
Rights Against Employment Discrimination
Every employee in Israel — including new immigrants and Ethiopian-Israelis — is protected against discrimination based on race, nationality, origin, and more.