Trusted Family Law Specialists:
Protecting Your Rights & Future
BENITA ARDENBAUM FAMILY & DIVORCE LAW ATTORNEY
Benita Ardenbaum Attorneys is a highly specialised divorce and family law firm whose main aim is to protect your rights and the rights of your children during life’s unexpected challenges. Whilst providing innovative and creative solutions to these often complex divorce and family law matters.
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“Let our experience be your guide and our practice your solution.”
With over 30 years of experience, we specialise in all areas of family and matrimonial law, including divorce law, child custody, maintenance, and domestic violence matters. Our team is committed to providing strategic, compassionate, and effective legal support tailored to your unique circumstances. Benita has built the firm on a clear vision of a legal service in which you receive the individual and personal attention that you require.
We will provide you with the necessary advice and options for resolving matters in a manner appropriate for your needs with our in-depth
understanding of human behaviour and the legal system. Our skills include negotiation, mediation, and when necessary, time-tested litigation skills.
Benita received KwaZulu-Natal Top Business Women 2022, Women of Influence, and winner of the Woman Extraordinaire sector. Benita is a distinguished member of the prestigious International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL). The IAFL is a worldwide association of practising lawyers who are recognised by their peers as the most experienced and skilled family law specialists in their respective countries.
Our legal Services
Explore What
we do best
The Firm is highly specialised in its core services and methodology. Our aim is to preserve and uphold the rights of our clients during any unexpected challenges or circumstances that may arise.
Honours and Awards
Features
Experts in financial high
net-worth cases
Secure your financial future with the advice and support of our expert team of lawyers who are skilled in dealing with financial settlement of divorces and the complexities of high net worth cases.
Learn About
Our Attorneys
Benita Ardenbaum
Director and Founder
Durban, Cape Town & Johannesburg
Durban, Cape Town & Johannesburg
benita ardenbaum
Benita Ardenbaum is an award-winning South African divorce and family lawyer with over 30 years of experience in Family Law, Divorce Law, and personal law. She is admitted to appear in the High Court of South Africa and began her legal career as a prosecutor, developing strong litigation skills. She is recognised for her expertise in high-conflict and high net worth divorces, international family law, cross-border child relocation and abduction, and enforcement of maintenance orders.
Her practice includes complex asset division, trust structures, and children’s matters. A member of the International Academy of Family Lawyers, she leads respected firms in Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg, combining legal strategy with emotional intelligence.
Kate Bailey - hill
Attorney and Solicitor
Durban & Johannesburg
Durban & Johannesburg
Kate Bailey - Hill
Kate is a highly professional and experienced Attorney and Solicitor of England and Wales.
She is a strong advocate for mediation and is a member of the South African Association of Mediators (SAAM).
Kate’s passion for family and children is a pinnacle strength which drives her to deliver appropriate legal solutions for her client’s. Kate’s expertise ranges from matters of divorce, maintenance, parental rights and responsibilities, domestic violence and care and contact. Having two children of her own, Kate’s caring and compassionate nature ensures that her focus is always on the best interests of the child.
Kate’s passion for family and children is a pinnacle strength which drives her to deliver appropriate legal solutions for her client’s. Kate’s expertise ranges from matters of divorce, maintenance, parental rights and responsibilities, domestic violence and care and contact. Having two children of her own, Kate’s caring and compassionate nature ensures that her focus is always on the best interests of the child.
Jessica Botha
Attorney and Conveyancer
Durban & Johannesburg
Durban & Johannesburg
Jessica Botha
Jessica Gooding graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of KwaZulu – Natal in June 2014, and was admitted as an Attorney of the High Court on 23 September 2016.
Jessica has a passion for family law and deals with all matters pertaining to: divorce, care and contact, parental rights and responsibilities, children’s rights and maintenance enquiries.
She is compassionate, driven and a persistent litigator who is sensitive to her client’s needs while dedicated to fervently advocating for their interests and providing practical legal solutions.
Jessica has a passion for family law and deals with all matters pertaining to: divorce, care and contact, parental rights and responsibilities, children’s rights and maintenance enquiries.
She is compassionate, driven and a persistent litigator who is sensitive to her client’s needs while dedicated to fervently advocating for their interests and providing practical legal solutions.
Thandokazi Bangani
Attorney
Durban
Durban
Thandokazi Bangani
Thandokazi, a dedicated attorney from East London, holds a Bachelor of Law and completed her articles in general litigation in Pietermaritzburg. Discovering her passion for family law, she joined our team in 2023.
Her greatest motivation is the opportunity to help clients improve their lives, working alongside a team of ambitious women. Thandokazi prides herself on rising to every challenge and always prioritizing her clients' best interests.
Vishali Mariemuthu
Senior Paralegal
Durban
Durban
Vishali Mariemuthu
With over 20 years in the legal and marketing sectors, I have evolved both professionally and personally, thanks to excellent teams and mentors. My career began with Senior Counsel, shaping my foundation in legal and business arenas.
I believe experience is defined by building lasting relationships in an environment that fosters growth and shared knowledge. I am excited to join the BA team, whose commitment to professional excellence and sincere approach resonates with me.
Zeenat Abdool Kalik
Front House Executive
Zeenat Kalik
I believe that service excellence defines and includes appreciation for opportunities and growth, and I strongly believe that one’s words can express who they are in their own way.
I therefore always practice a happy and welcoming disposition to all clients. With more than 10 years of experience as a front office executive I understand the importance of being the “first contact” to clients and together with my love for working with people, I practice this both personally and professionally.
I therefore always practice a happy and welcoming disposition to all clients. With more than 10 years of experience as a front office executive I understand the importance of being the “first contact” to clients and together with my love for working with people, I practice this both personally and professionally.
Jocelyn Finnie
Candidate Attorney
Durban
Durban
Jocelyn Finnie
Originally from Pietermaritzburg, Jocelyn completed both her degrees at Stellenbosch University, namely a BA Law with a triple major in law, psychology, and philosophy and a Post-Graduate LLB. She was a mentee in the mentorship programme of the South African Chapter of International Women Judges Association and a consultant at the Stellenbosch University Law Clinic.
It was here where she started to grow a passion in family law. Her biggest motivator in joining the legal fraternity is to leave the world a better place by the time she is done with it and to speak up for those who are not able to do so themselves. She always strives to give of her best and ensures all she does is completed with integrity, skill, and compassion.
It was here where she started to grow a passion in family law. Her biggest motivator in joining the legal fraternity is to leave the world a better place by the time she is done with it and to speak up for those who are not able to do so themselves. She always strives to give of her best and ensures all she does is completed with integrity, skill, and compassion.
Kayla Spinoy
Attorney
Cape Town
Cape Town
Kayla Spinoy
Kayla obtained her Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Free State in 2020 and was admitted as an attorney in May 2023. She practiced and specialized in Family Law at a law firm in Cape Town before joining our team in June 2025.
Throughout her studies, articles and practice, Kayla has maintained a strong fascination with the law and how it can be utilized to assist the people that it is meant to protect. Kayla strives to handle each matter with efficiency, integrity and an open mind. She prides herself on her interpersonal abilities, which has assisted her in navigating the sensitive intricacies of family and divorce law. In each matter, Kayla prefers to take a solution-driven approach with the client's specific circumstances and needs in mind.
Taysha Reddy
Business Manager
Taysha Reddy
With a BCom Finance degree and six years as a Legal Bookkeeper, I offer a strong understanding of attorneys' trust and investment accounts. My commitment to integrity, transparency, and strong analytical skills has ensured accurate financial records and efficient legal financial operations. I'm eager to contribute to the success of your esteemed firm.
Saihil Bechan
Attorney
Durban
Durban
Saihil Bechan
Saihil is a dedicated attorney specializing in family and commercial law, where he navigates high emotions and complex legal issues with a sensitive, strategic approach. Committed to personalized, professional service, he always prioritizes his clients' best interests. Saihil earned his LLB from the University of the Free State in 2018 and practised in Pietermaritzburg before joining our team in May 2024.
He lives by the quote, "Every problem contains within itself the seeds of its own solution," which inspires his critical thinking and resilience.
He lives by the quote, "Every problem contains within itself the seeds of its own solution," which inspires his critical thinking and resilience.
Elaine Dhanukdhari
Senior Bookkeeper
Durban
Durban
Elaine Dhanukdhari
Elaine is the Senior Bookkeeper at Benita Ardenbaum Attorneys, with over 15 years of experience as a bookkeeper. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for finance, particularly within the legal sphere. Throughout her career, Elaine has developed a strong dedication to financial excellence and is inspired by the meaningful work and pursuit of justice carried out by the firm.
She is well-versed in the management of attorney trust and investment accounts, ensuring that both the firm’s and clients’ finances are handled with the highest levels of care, accuracy, and integrity. Elaine lives by the quote, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt.
She is well-versed in the management of attorney trust and investment accounts, ensuring that both the firm’s and clients’ finances are handled with the highest levels of care, accuracy, and integrity. Elaine lives by the quote, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt.
Benita Is A Member Of The Prestigious International Academy Of Family Lawyers (IAFL).
The Firm Has Expertise
In The Following Areas
Of International Law :
- Family law disputes in international jurisdictions
- Divorce, nullity and dissolution of same-sex partnerships
- Separation
- Finances
- Marital and child support
- Marital and cohabitation agreements
- Issues in relation to children including custody and residence, visitation, relocation, abduction, surrogacy, adoption and public law
- Dispute resolution including, mediation and collaborative law
steps to success
We Will Help You Every Step Of The Way
We work closely with our clients, valuing open communication and addressing their unique needs with care and dedication.
What People Say About Us
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In the often-intimidating world of law, Benita Ardenbaum stands out as a rare and radiant force—an inspiring blend of strength, wisdom, and deep compassion. As an attorney, Benita brings not only sharp legal acumen but also a powerful background in psychology that makes her approach truly transformative. She doesn’t just fight cases; she walks alongside her clients with a nurturing heart, genuine care, and an unwavering sense of justice.
Benita is the kind of advocate who fiercely protects those who come to her in vulnerable moments. She listens—not just to the facts, but to the feelings, the fears, and the unspoken truths beneath the surface. Her psychological insight enables her to connect deeply with her clients, offering them not just legal counsel, but emotional strength and empowerment.
What makes Benita truly exceptional is the way she embodies both firmness and femininity. She is strong, fearless, and unshakably principled—yet never loses the grace, empathy, and warmth that define her presence. In her, clients find a champion who will fight tirelessly for what is right, while also holding space for healing and hope.
She inspires trust. She nurtures confidence. She empowers those around her. And through every case, every cause, and every challenge, Benita Ardenbaum proves that justice and compassion are not opposing forces—they are most powerful when they stand side by side.
For those fortunate enough to work with her, Benita is not only a brilliant attorney but a source of courage and care. The legal world is richer because of her presence, and so are the countless lives she continues to impact with strength, sensitivity, and soul.
Benita is the kind of advocate who fiercely protects those who come to her in vulnerable moments. She listens—not just to the facts, but to the feelings, the fears, and the unspoken truths beneath the surface. Her psychological insight enables her to connect deeply with her clients, offering them not just legal counsel, but emotional strength and empowerment.
What makes Benita truly exceptional is the way she embodies both firmness and femininity. She is strong, fearless, and unshakably principled—yet never loses the grace, empathy, and warmth that define her presence. In her, clients find a champion who will fight tirelessly for what is right, while also holding space for healing and hope.
She inspires trust. She nurtures confidence. She empowers those around her. And through every case, every cause, and every challenge, Benita Ardenbaum proves that justice and compassion are not opposing forces—they are most powerful when they stand side by side.
For those fortunate enough to work with her, Benita is not only a brilliant attorney but a source of courage and care. The legal world is richer because of her presence, and so are the countless lives she continues to impact with strength, sensitivity, and soul.
I started off the proceedings of divorce only with the support, confidence, enthusiasm and encouragement of Benita and her exceptionally professional team. I was lost, hurt, desperate and after having a husband who walked out after a quarter of a century of marriage, I did not even know where to start. The first step I took in the journey to regain myself was made by reaching out to this awesome fabulous team of dynamic ladies. What transpired many months later was a journey I would not have made on my own. I owe these brilliant ladies my deepest gratitude for empowering me as much as they have. To Benita, Jess and the phenomenal team, the biggest heartfelt thank you.
A wonderful team of amazing ladies who were available for us through all the drama, whilst being professional. They were compassionate and always acted in the best interest of us, not only as my partner's attorney but to always ensure we were both kept in the loop at all times.
Benita Ardenbaum family law, an excellent firm with a lot of experience.
I currently am represented by Benita and found that her many years of experience plays a major part in being successful in what you as a client sets out for. In a world where a fathers voice is turned down, she amplifies it and assures he is heard. Benita in my opinion is a meticulous, thorough individual who doesn’t stop until every stone is turned for her client. As a father who was in a constant battle for visitation rights to my minor child had approached Benita and she assisted to which I was successful. It is in my opinion that at times an individual could tick all boxes to be legally successful, however, if that individual does not have the right representation all will be in vain. Benita assures perfect execution all the time.
I currently am represented by Benita and found that her many years of experience plays a major part in being successful in what you as a client sets out for. In a world where a fathers voice is turned down, she amplifies it and assures he is heard. Benita in my opinion is a meticulous, thorough individual who doesn’t stop until every stone is turned for her client. As a father who was in a constant battle for visitation rights to my minor child had approached Benita and she assisted to which I was successful. It is in my opinion that at times an individual could tick all boxes to be legally successful, however, if that individual does not have the right representation all will be in vain. Benita assures perfect execution all the time.
Loved Benita’s approach and professionalism, looking forward to working with your firm.
Benita and her team know how to pull off the impossible! After a close friend of my mine went through numerous legal teams, Benita was able to bring him well deserved justice and reunite him with his son. This team is professional, delivers on their word and comes highly recommended!
They’re the best in the business. Benita helped a family friend of mine with a case that no one else was able to help him with. After years of fighting the case he came across Benita and her team and they swiftly got justice for him and changed his life for the better by allowing him to finally spend well deserved time with his son. Would highly recommend. 👍🏽
I am exceedingly grateful to Benita and her team for really and truly pulling a rabbit out of the hat for my wife, stepdaughter and I. We were faced with a totally impossible cross border custody debacle that we estimated would take half a year to sort out.
Benita came very highly recommended so we sought her help. And Voila! 4 weeks later, problem solved! In record time and with flawless professionalism.
I cannot put in words the level of gratitude and respect I have for Benita's integrity, sincerity and expertise. This is a blue-chip team that is truly in a class of their own. Thank You Benita.
Benita came very highly recommended so we sought her help. And Voila! 4 weeks later, problem solved! In record time and with flawless professionalism.
I cannot put in words the level of gratitude and respect I have for Benita's integrity, sincerity and expertise. This is a blue-chip team that is truly in a class of their own. Thank You Benita.
Benita Ardenbaum, I would like to personally thank you for achieving such great results in a short period of time. I was in such a terrible motion of court battles and issues. I’m truly grateful I met you, you are so good at what you do and there is many people out there that will be eternally grateful for meeting you. You are worth every cent. Best family attorney I have ever met. Super star. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You made a huge difference in my life.
What People Say About Us
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
In the often-intimidating world of law, Benita Ardenbaum stands out as a rare and radiant force—an inspiring blend of strength, wisdom, and deep compassion. As an attorney, Benita brings not only sharp legal acumen but also a powerful background in psychology that makes her approach truly transformative. She doesn’t just fight cases; she walks alongside her clients with a nurturing heart, genuine care, and an unwavering sense of justice.
Benita is the kind of advocate who fiercely protects those who come to her in vulnerable moments. She listens—not just to the facts, but to the feelings, the fears, and the unspoken truths beneath the surface. Her psychological insight enables her to connect deeply with her clients, offering them not just legal counsel, but emotional strength and empowerment.
What makes Benita truly exceptional is the way she embodies both firmness and femininity. She is strong, fearless, and unshakably principled—yet never loses the grace, empathy, and warmth that define her presence. In her, clients find a champion who will fight tirelessly for what is right, while also holding space for healing and hope.
She inspires trust. She nurtures confidence. She empowers those around her. And through every case, every cause, and every challenge, Benita Ardenbaum proves that justice and compassion are not opposing forces—they are most powerful when they stand side by side.
For those fortunate enough to work with her, Benita is not only a brilliant attorney but a source of courage and care. The legal world is richer because of her presence, and so are the countless lives she continues to impact with strength, sensitivity, and soul.
Benita is the kind of advocate who fiercely protects those who come to her in vulnerable moments. She listens—not just to the facts, but to the feelings, the fears, and the unspoken truths beneath the surface. Her psychological insight enables her to connect deeply with her clients, offering them not just legal counsel, but emotional strength and empowerment.
What makes Benita truly exceptional is the way she embodies both firmness and femininity. She is strong, fearless, and unshakably principled—yet never loses the grace, empathy, and warmth that define her presence. In her, clients find a champion who will fight tirelessly for what is right, while also holding space for healing and hope.
She inspires trust. She nurtures confidence. She empowers those around her. And through every case, every cause, and every challenge, Benita Ardenbaum proves that justice and compassion are not opposing forces—they are most powerful when they stand side by side.
For those fortunate enough to work with her, Benita is not only a brilliant attorney but a source of courage and care. The legal world is richer because of her presence, and so are the countless lives she continues to impact with strength, sensitivity, and soul.
I started off the proceedings of divorce only with the support, confidence, enthusiasm and encouragement of Benita and her exceptionally professional team. I was lost, hurt, desperate and after having a husband who walked out after a quarter of a century of marriage, I did not even know where to start. The first step I took in the journey to regain myself was made by reaching out to this awesome fabulous team of dynamic ladies. What transpired many months later was a journey I would not have made on my own. I owe these brilliant ladies my deepest gratitude for empowering me as much as they have. To Benita, Jess and the phenomenal team, the biggest heartfelt thank you.
A wonderful team of amazing ladies who were available for us through all the drama, whilst being professional. They were compassionate and always acted in the best interest of us, not only as my partner's attorney but to always ensure we were both kept in the loop at all times.
Benita Ardenbaum family law, an excellent firm with a lot of experience.
I currently am represented by Benita and found that her many years of experience plays a major part in being successful in what you as a client sets out for. In a world where a fathers voice is turned down, she amplifies it and assures he is heard. Benita in my opinion is a meticulous, thorough individual who doesn’t stop until every stone is turned for her client. As a father who was in a constant battle for visitation rights to my minor child had approached Benita and she assisted to which I was successful. It is in my opinion that at times an individual could tick all boxes to be legally successful, however, if that individual does not have the right representation all will be in vain. Benita assures perfect execution all the time.
I currently am represented by Benita and found that her many years of experience plays a major part in being successful in what you as a client sets out for. In a world where a fathers voice is turned down, she amplifies it and assures he is heard. Benita in my opinion is a meticulous, thorough individual who doesn’t stop until every stone is turned for her client. As a father who was in a constant battle for visitation rights to my minor child had approached Benita and she assisted to which I was successful. It is in my opinion that at times an individual could tick all boxes to be legally successful, however, if that individual does not have the right representation all will be in vain. Benita assures perfect execution all the time.
Loved Benita’s approach and professionalism, looking forward to working with your firm.
Benita and her team know how to pull off the impossible! After a close friend of my mine went through numerous legal teams, Benita was able to bring him well deserved justice and reunite him with his son. This team is professional, delivers on their word and comes highly recommended!
They’re the best in the business. Benita helped a family friend of mine with a case that no one else was able to help him with. After years of fighting the case he came across Benita and her team and they swiftly got justice for him and changed his life for the better by allowing him to finally spend well deserved time with his son. Would highly recommend. 👍🏽
I am exceedingly grateful to Benita and her team for really and truly pulling a rabbit out of the hat for my wife, stepdaughter and I. We were faced with a totally impossible cross border custody debacle that we estimated would take half a year to sort out.
Benita came very highly recommended so we sought her help. And Voila! 4 weeks later, problem solved! In record time and with flawless professionalism.
I cannot put in words the level of gratitude and respect I have for Benita's integrity, sincerity and expertise. This is a blue-chip team that is truly in a class of their own. Thank You Benita.
Benita came very highly recommended so we sought her help. And Voila! 4 weeks later, problem solved! In record time and with flawless professionalism.
I cannot put in words the level of gratitude and respect I have for Benita's integrity, sincerity and expertise. This is a blue-chip team that is truly in a class of their own. Thank You Benita.
Benita Ardenbaum, I would like to personally thank you for achieving such great results in a short period of time. I was in such a terrible motion of court battles and issues. I’m truly grateful I met you, you are so good at what you do and there is many people out there that will be eternally grateful for meeting you. You are worth every cent. Best family attorney I have ever met. Super star. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You made a huge difference in my life.
We have lots of experience
Blogs
Cultural Practices & Child Custody: What the Law Says in South Africa
Benita Ardenbaum
23/10/2025
South Africa is often referred to as the “Rainbow Nation,” a country rich in cultural diversity, with 11 official languages and numerous ethnic and cultural
Legal Essentials for Female Entrepreneurs in South Africa
Benita Ardenbaum
16/09/2025
South Africa has seen an inspiring rise in female entrepreneurship, with more women stepping up to start businesses, drive innovation, and challenge norms. As Women’s
Adoption in South Africa: Process, Timelines & Legal Requirements
Benita Ardenbaum
11/09/2025
Adoption is one of the most meaningful ways to provide a child with a safe, loving, and permanent home. It is a deeply rewarding journey