Our Blog
Understanding South Africa’s Amended Parental Leave Framework
The amendments to South Africa’s parental leave laws were prompted by a case involving a couple who had agreed that the father would assume primary parental responsibilities as soon as possible after their child’s birth, [...]
What Does Civil Marriage Mean in South Africa?
What Does Civil Marriage Mean in South Africa? A civil marriage is one of the most common forms of legally recognised unions in South Africa. It is a formal agreement between two people that establishes [...]
The Requirements of a Valid Will in South Africa
Drafting a will is one of the most important steps in safeguarding your legacy and ensuring that your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes. In South Africa, wills are governed by the [...]
The 7 Steps in a Civil Case in South Africa Explained
Civil litigation in South Africa follows a structured and rule-based process governed by legislation, court rules, and procedural conventions. Whether you're a plaintiff or defendant, understanding how a civil case unfolds is essential to protect [...]
What qualifies as personal information under POPIA?
South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) is one of the most important pieces of legislation guiding how organisations handle personal data. At its core, POPIA ensures that people’s privacy and dignity are respected [...]
How the Summons Procedure Works in South Africa
The summons procedure is a formal legal process in South Africa that initiates court action against an individual or organisation. It is used in civil matters where one party, known as the plaintiff, seeks to [...]
Publication of the 2025 Code of Good Practice: Dismissal
On 4 September 2025, the Minister of Employment and Labour formally published a new Code of Good Practice: Dismissal (the “Code”). The Code takes effect immediately and repeals both the previous Schedule 8 Code of [...]
Grounds for Divorce in South Africa – Legal Guidance
When a marriage reaches a point where it can no longer function as a healthy partnership, South African law provides specific legal routes to end the union. The Divorce Act 70 of 1979 outlines three [...]
The validity of electronic signatures when it comes to suretyship agreements
In terms of section 6 of the General Law Amendment Act No. 50 of 1956 (“the GLA”), which regulates the formalities in respect of contracts of suretyships, no contract or agreement of suretyship entered into [...]
What Is a Plaintiff in South African Law?
Civil courts resolve private disputes every working day across the country, from contract breaches to motor-vehicle collisions. The person or entity who brings such a claim is called the plaintiff. Understanding the plaintiff’s role is [...]
What South African Law Says About Travelling with Minor Children
Travelling internationally with minor children can be a sensitive issue, particularly when it involves parties in an acrimonious relationship. In South Africa, the law places the best interests of the child above all else. This [...]
Spousal Maintenance in South Africa – Alimony Explained
Spousal maintenance in South Africa refers to the financial assistance required by one spouse from another, either during divorce proceedings or after a decree of divorce has been granted. South African courts are empowered by [...]
Competition Law in South Africa: Understanding the Competition Act
Competition Law in South Africa: Understanding the Competition Act Competition law in South Africa serves as the foundation for a fair and dynamic economy. Enacted through the Competition Act 89 of 1998, it ensures that [...]
How Does a Parenting Plan Work in South Africa?
Parenting plans in South Africa are essential legal agreements designed to help separated or divorced parents outline how they will share responsibilities for their children. These plans focus on the child’s best interests and provide [...]
How to Report a Car Accident in South Africa: A Legal Guide
A car accident in South Africa can be a stressful and traumatic experience. However, understanding your legal responsibilities and the necessary steps can help you navigate the situation effectively. This guide provides essential information on [...]
Can a husband take on his wife’s surname after marriage?
It is common knowledge that a woman can take on her husband’s surname after marriage, however, have you ever wondered whether a husband can assume his wife’s surname? Prior to September 2024, the Births and [...]
Cyber Crimes in South Africa: Legal Insights and Protection
Cyber crimes in South Africa have grown into a significant challenge, impacting individuals, businesses, and governmental institutions alike. As technology becomes more embedded in daily life, South Africans face an increasing array of cyber threats. [...]
Understanding the Corporate Veil in South Africa’s Companies Act 71
In South African corporate law, the principle of "piercing the corporate veil" remains an essential tool for ensuring accountability in business conduct. This legal doctrine allows courts to hold directors or shareholders personally liable for [...]
Code of Good Practice for Dismissals in South Africa
Code of Good Practice: Essential Adherence for South African Employers The Code of Good Practice (Code) serves as a foundational guide for employers in South Africa, focusing on fair practices regarding dismissal relating to employee [...]
How to Legally Sign Documents Abroad for Use in South Africa
Question I am currently abroad and need to sign documents that are to be used in RSA. How do I go about this to ensure the documents are accepted in RSA? Answer Because these documents [...]
What are the steps typically taken (by the transferring attorneys) to effect the transfer of property?
Here are the steps typically taken (by the transferring attorneys) to effect the transfer of property. Receive instructions to attend to the transfer (Agreement of Sale/ Offer to Purchase). As soon as the suspensive conditions [...]
Enforcement of a Foreign Civil Judgment in South Africa
In the increasingly interconnected global landscape, it will often happen that legal entities and individuals engage with each other across numerous different jurisdictions, with each party possibly being in separate jurisdictions. A judgment that a [...]
What Are Particulars of Claim in South Africa? A Legal Overview
In South African civil litigation, a particulars of claim is a critical legal document that sets the stage for any legal action. It outlines the plaintiff’s case by presenting the facts and legal grounds upon [...]
Notarial Bonds in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know
Notarial bonds are an essential yet often overlooked tool in securing debts in South Africa. While most are familiar with mortgage bonds registered over immovable property, notarial bonds serve a similar function but are specifically [...]