Most attorneys, recognizing the complexity of defamation cases, require a significant upfront payment to take on such matters. It is not uncommon for a legal representative to demand a deposit of at least between R30 000 to R50,000 before initiating the legal process. This initial investment serves as a testament to the serious financial commitment required to defend oneself against allegations of defamation.

The surviving spouse may approach Home Affairs for late registration of customary marriage, apply for appointment as executor. The spouse is entitled to 50% of the joint estate and R250 000 in child’s portion.

In simple terms, individuals who entered into marriages without the accrual system while married out of the community of property will now have the right to request a redistribution of assets, regardless of the terms outlined in their antenuptial contract.

In the heart of South Africa's diverse legal landscape, divorce proceedings follow a unique path. Unlike the dramatic signature moments depicted in movies, there's no requirement for husbands and wives to ink divorce papers with flourish.

Employees are typically required to disclose a criminal record if it directly relates to the responsibilities and duties of the job they are applying for. For example, a candidate applying for a position involving financial management may be required to disclose a conviction for embezzlement. Furthermore, certain professions, such as law enforcement or child care, often mandate stringent background checks, and any criminal history may need to be disclosed.

One of the most immediate and severe consequences of ignoring a summons in South Africa is the risk of a default judgment. If you fail to respond to a summons within the prescribed time frame (usually 10-20 days), the court may proceed without your input and issue a default judgment in favor of the creditor.

A family trust, legally established under the Trust Property Control Act, is a versatile tool for managing wealth and assets. It allows couples to transfer assets into a trust, often for the benefit of their children or other beneficiaries.

While under debt review, you are flagged with a credit bureau as being under review. This mark will stay on your credit record until you've completed the process, which can take several years. This makes it challenging to secure new credit during this period.

Who owns the rights to a photograph in South Africa? Does the photographer have exclusive rights, or does the person photographed also hold certain rights? To shed light on this matter, we delve into South African legislation and the extent of rights that photographers and their subjects possess.

What exactly is forfeiture, and under what circumstances does it come into play in a South African divorce? This article is your comprehensive guide to understanding the intricate web of rules and reasons that lead to the forfeiture of assets.