In 2026, maintenance in South Africa is more strictly enforced than ever. Learn how the Maintenance Act and Divorce Act regulate spousal and child maintenance, including interim support, high net worth disputes, and the legal steps available to claim, enforce or vary maintenance orders.
Divorce is never an easy decision. It affects far more than your marital status; it touches your emotions, family, and overall well-being.
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 groups. From Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho communities to Tswana, Venda, and Ndebele, each cultural group has unique traditions and practices that influence family life.
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 for adoptive parents, but also a process governed by strict legal adoption requirements to ensure that the child’s best interests remain the priority. In
Navigating the complexities of fatherhood can be challenging, especially for unmarried fathers in South Africa. Many dads may not know the extent of their legal rights or how to assert them. This article sheds light on the rights of unmarried fathers, addresses common misconceptions, and provides practical steps to
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction plays an important role in returning children wrongfully removed or retained across international borders. This guide explores the requirements and procedures involved in applying under the Hague Convention in South Africa and emphasises the importance of legal assistance
Adoption is a legal process through which a person or couple becomes the legal parent(s) of a child who is not their biological offspring. In South Africa, adoption is governed by specific laws and regulations to ensure the protection and welfare of the child being adopted, as well as
Ms Hendricks recently approached our offices for advice on the issue of the termination of her ex-husband’s parental responsibilities and rights in respect of their daughter who is 6 years old. She advised our offices that she divorced her husband in 2019 due to the abuse and infidelity that
Miss A recently approached our offices wanting to relocate with her minor child to the United Kingdom. Miss A and the father of the minor child were never married, but they had concluded a Parenting Plan when the minor child was still an infant as to the father’s responsibilities
Mr and Mrs Smith divorced 25 years ago. They entered into a settlement agreement at the time which required Mr Smith to pay monthly maintenance to his wife until she died or remarried. He was also required to pay maintenance for their minor children until they became self-supporting. Despite
