Blog

November 28, 2024

Surrogacy and the Legal Process

Surrogacy, a process where a woman carries and delivers a child for another person or couple, is a complex journey intertwining medical, emotional, and legal considerations. […]
November 28, 2024

Understanding Living Wills

When one thinks of a will, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a last will and testament. This type of will expresses a […]
November 28, 2024

Tenant ‘Red Flags’ and How to Avoid Them

The wrong tenant can have a lasting negative effect. The residential property industry continues its upward trajectory, and investors are getting in on the action.  However, […]
November 28, 2024

Are You Obligated to Pay Arrear Levies When Purchasing a Sectional Title Unit? Part 2

Recently, the High Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) were required to interpret Section 15B(3)(a)(i)(aa) of the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 in […]
November 28, 2024

Contractual Consequences of Breaking Off an Engagement

Contrary to popular belief, an engagement is not a mere social agreement. South African common law recognises an engagement (or promise to marry) as a contract […]
November 28, 2024

SARS Thanks You for Their 13th Cheque

Why bonuses are taxed so savagely. Every year at around this time, I get queries from people asking why SARS has taken such a massive bite […]
November 28, 2024

Can Maintenance Be Claimed on Behalf of Adult Dependent Children?

In a recent judgment by the Supreme Court of Appeal, the case of Z v Z examined whether a parent has the legal standing to claim […]
November 28, 2024

Understanding Estate Massing in Community of Property Marriages

In community of property marriages, spouses often combine their estates, or mass their estates, to ensure that certain assets go to specific beneficiaries. This is done […]
November 8, 2024

Does a Settlement Agreement Constitute a Credit Agreement?

In a recent legal dispute, the court’s ruling brought to the forefront a perplexing issue that has long plagued the legal landscape: the classification of settlement […]
November 8, 2024

The Costs of Deceased Estates Explained

An important function of an executor, the person who is appointed by the Master of the High Court to administer a deceased estate, is to account […]
November 8, 2024

Understanding Subpoenas: A Focus on Magistrates’ Courts – Part 2

People who have not studied law or have no prior knowledge of the law may be confused and uncertain when served with a legal document called […]
November 8, 2024

Why a Home Loan Prequalification Matters

So you’ve been looking to buy your dream home, and you’ve seen something for sale that grabs your fancy. Now imagine yourself walking through the front […]
October 23, 2024

Addressing minority shareholder oppression: Effective remedies

Being a minority shareholder can leave you powerless in situations where decisions are made against your wishes. Most Memorandums of Incorporation (MOIs) typically require a 75% […]
October 23, 2024

Are you obligated to pay arrear levies when purchasing a Sectional Title Unit? Part 1

Recently, the High Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) was required to interpret Section 15B(3)(a)(i)(aa) of the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 in […]
October 23, 2024

When can my employer convert my paid suspension to unpaid?

Generally, employees suspended during a disciplinary enquiry are entitled to their full salary. This suspension allows for a thorough investigation of the incident in the workplace […]
October 23, 2024

Reproductive rights in South Africa: Anonymity of sperm and egg donors

Individuals are increasingly relying on Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) to realise their reproductive rights and desire to procreate as a result of rising infertility rates worldwide. The emergence […]
September 18, 2024

Who Owns Your Home—the Bank, or You?

With the vast majority of homes being financed through the country’s biggest banks, the popular online debate around who owns a mortgaged home in South Africa […]
September 18, 2024

Understanding Homeowners Associations (HOAs)

If you are considering buying a property in a housing development, it’s essential to understand what a Homeowners Association (HOA) is and how it operates. HOAs […]
September 18, 2024

How to Wind Up a Deceased Estate

Winding up an estate in South Africa is a meticulous process governed by the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965. It involves the collection and […]
September 18, 2024

Understanding the Two-Pot Retirement System: Questions and Answers

As of 1 September 2024, significant changes have been introduced to the retirement landscape in South Africa with the implementation of the two-pot retirement system. This […]
August 26, 2024

Is There a Need for Sectional Ownership?

Professor C.G. van der Merwe, the doyen of sectional titles in South Africa, sets out the reasons for introducing sectional ownership into a legal system. He […]
August 26, 2024

Understanding South Africa’s Domestic Violence and Harassment Act: A Comparative Analysis

South Africa has made significant strides in combating domestic violence and protecting the rights of its citizens. The Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 (DVA) and […]
August 26, 2024

Registered Antenuptial Contracts vs Agreements Between Spouses

The term ‘antenuptial contract’ can refer to either an informal contract or a contract complying with the formalities required by s 87 of the Deeds Registries […]
August 26, 2024

Can a Creditor Sell the Home of a Debtor to Recover Outstanding Debt?

Most South Africans today, are overburdened and overwhelmed with debt and are struggling to repay creditors. According to recent statistics, a third of people in South […]
July 22, 2024

How to Proceed with Divorce When Your Spouse Cannot Be Found

Rule 44(1) of the Uniform Rules of Court states that documents requesting a divorce or marriage annulment must be personally delivered to the person it concerns […]
July 22, 2024

Wrongfully Arrested by the Police: How Much Money Can You Claim?

In South Africa, countless innocent people are wrongfully arrested, thrown into jail, and then subjected to degrading, inhumane, and dehumanising circumstances. What would be the legal […]
July 22, 2024

Five Residential Property Trends No One Saw Coming

Experts have already predicted the top property trends of 2024, ranging from the impact of looming interest rate cuts to co-buying, solar power financing, sectional title […]
July 22, 2024

What Will Happen If You Ignore a Court Order?

Ignoring a court order in South Africa is a serious matter that can lead to significant legal consequences, including being held in contempt of court. This […]
June 25, 2024

Property Advice in an Election Year

Buy now, sell later. This year, almost half of the world’s inhabitants will head to the polls to elect their new governments, including eight of the […]
June 25, 2024

The Omission of a Single Word Can Lead to a Will Being Contested

The contents of an “inelegant and very badly drafted” will were recently the subject of a dispute in the South Gauteng High Court, in the matter […]
June 25, 2024

How a Latin Phrase Affected a Recent Property Dispute Case

In essence, the Latin phrase nec vi, nec clam, nec precario translates to “without force, without secrecy, and without permission”. According to the Prescription Act, a […]
June 25, 2024

Understanding Tenant Rights to Property Possession

It often happens that a tenant, for whatever reason, refuses, neglects or is unable to pay rent and falls into arrears. A landlord, frustrated with the […]
May 28, 2024

Should You Opt for a DIY Divorce in South Africa?

A DIY divorce in South Africa offers a cost-effective, simple option for uncontested cases but comes with risks like unfair settlements and asset division issues. This […]
May 28, 2024

Elections 2024: Are Prisoners in South Africa Allowed to Vote?

The right to vote in South Africa carries unique significance in our democracy. It is a right that was withheld from the majority of people in […]
May 28, 2024

Expert Family Law Services: Divorce, Child Maintenance, and Spousal Support

Facing the challenges of divorce, child maintenance, and spousal support can seem daunting, but there’s no need to go through it by yourself. The right expertise […]
May 28, 2024

Are You Using Your Residential Property for an Unauthorised or Illegal Purpose?

Residential homeowners must be aware of the judgment handed down by the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in the case of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan […]
April 23, 2024

Understanding your rights: Breach and penalty clauses in property agreements

When buying immovable property, the offer to purchase serves as an agreement between buyer and seller. Within this document, certain clauses demand meticulous attention from both […]
April 23, 2024

2024’s top risks for corporate leaders

In 2024, corporate leaders in South Africa and around the world are facing more legal challenges than ever before. As the business environment becomes more complex, […]
April 23, 2024

What implications does a lien have on eviction proceedings: Part 1.

In conflicts between property owners and tenants seeking compensation for property improvements before leaving, eviction proceedings are possible, but success depends on location and lease terms. […]
April 23, 2024

The intent to revoke a last will and testament

The Western Cape High Court recently examined whether a person had the intent to revoke their existing will. The deceased, hospitalised with COVID-19, expressed a desire […]
March 27, 2024

Can you inherit from someone you have merely been living with?

In South Africa, the number of couples who are permanently living together in life partnerships is increasing every year. What are the consequences that would ensue […]
March 27, 2024

Why a notary? – Part 2

In Part 1 of this article, we looked at the roles and functions of a notary, especially their general duties. In this part, we will look […]
March 27, 2024

New era for domestic violence cases: Enhanced protection under amended act

The legal landscape for domestic violence in South Africa just shifted. New amendments focus on swift arrests, tougher bail, and preventing charge withdrawals to prioritise victim […]
March 27, 2024

Estate Planning: Preparing for the digital afterlife

The emergence of digital ghosts on social media Social media platforms have become integral to our daily lives, but what happens to these digital profiles when […]
February 27, 2024

The requirements for a registered office of a company

One aspect that is often not considered in great detail during the formation and registration of a juristic person in South Africa is its registered office, […]
February 27, 2024

Factors that influence the value of your home

When determining the value of your property, it’s often a challenge to remain objective due to the emotional and financial attachment you have to your home. […]
February 27, 2024

Why a Notary? – Part 1

Clients often ask why certain documentation must be authenticated or certified by a Notary and not by a Commissioner of Oaths. To answer this question, one […]
February 27, 2024

Navigating antenuptial agreements in South Africa: Your questions answered

Preparing for marriage in South Africa involves several critical decisions, one of which is the antenuptial agreement (AN). This legal document is vital for dictating the […]
January 22, 2024

Beware of tax-related scams

Over the past five years, the SAFPS has seen a steady increase in the number of tax-related scams. Improved efficiency To improve efficiency when it comes […]
January 22, 2024

Does my maiden name automatically change if I get married in South Africa?

Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, bringing with it a multitude of changes and decisions. One such decision that often arises is whether to […]
January 22, 2024

Understanding mortgage bond cancellation: Key steps and considerations

In South Africa, the process of cancelling a mortgage bond is commonly necessitated when a property is sold or the bond is fully paid off. This […]
January 22, 2024

Understanding medical aid benefits in South Africa

Understanding and effectively managing your medical aid benefits is a crucial aspect of healthcare planning in South Africa. The diverse and complex healthcare system of the […]
November 29, 2023

Compliance certificates required when selling a property

There is a duty on the Seller when selling an immovable property to provide certain certificates of compliance to the Purchaser. There are five compliance certificates […]
November 29, 2023

Is a seller held liable to repair a leaking roof after the property is sold?

The Purchaser signs an agreement of sale with the Seller. The property is transferred into the Purchaser’s name. A month later, there were heavy rainfalls and […]
November 29, 2023

Hey, Generation Y and Generation Z!

Do you think you can retire comfortably? Millions of South Africans rely on the money saved in their employers’ retirement fund to earn an income when […]
November 29, 2023

Smart budgeting tips to make the most of your income

Have you ever found yourself puzzled by your bank statement, wondering where all your money went? Those daily coffees and occasional treats can add up faster […]
November 27, 2023

Should sellers provide approved building plans when selling property?

The simple answer is no. However, the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act mandates that local authorities approve building plans for the construction, alteration, or […]
November 27, 2023

Your PAYE obligations as an employer

As an employer, it is your responsibility to withhold tax from your employees’ salaries and remit it to SARS. Employee tax is a key component of […]
November 27, 2023

What to do after discovering fraud in your business

Anyone who’s ever had the misfortune to fall prey to credit card fraud, knows that it’s a huge hassle. If you’re running a business, you should […]
November 27, 2023

When your tenant ‘Does a Duck’

Tips for landlords when their tenant does a disappearing act Everyone who has let out property knows that sickening feeling when you find out that your […]
October 20, 2023

Avoid the long-term implications of skipping a bond repayment

Are you feeling the financial pinch? You’re not alone. Many South Africans are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their credit obligations. The cost of living […]
October 20, 2023

Can you change your marital regime after marriage?

A marital regime determines how parties’ assets will be managed and divided during their marriage and in the event of divorce or death. Changing the marital […]
October 20, 2023

Factors to consider before negotiating your home loan’s interest rate

As interest rates continue to rise, many homeowners find themselves contemplating the idea of fixing their home loan interest rates. Initially, when the interest rate hike […]
October 20, 2023

When SARS requests supporting documents

E-filing doesn’t allow ‘secured’ or password-protected documents to be uploaded—but there is a solution FOLLOWING SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter’s announcement that he intends to rebuild SARS’ […]
September 22, 2023

Avoid the Long-Term Implications of Skipping a Bond Repayment

Are you feeling the financial pinch? You’re not alone. Many South Africans are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their credit obligations. The cost of living […]
September 22, 2023

Estate Planning in South Africa: Essential Questions Answered

Estate planning is a critical part of financial planning, yet it often gets overlooked. This process involves drafting a will, assigning assets to beneficiaries, and understanding […]
September 22, 2023

The ABCs of Lease Agreements in South Africa

Navigating the world of lease agreements can be complex and fraught with potential pitfalls. In South Africa, these agreements are an essential tool for establishing clear […]
September 21, 2023

Harnessing Technology to Amplify Efficiency

In a world where adaptability is the key to survival and prosperity, organisations across various industries are striving to stay ahead of the curve. Economic and […]
August 25, 2023

Securing your business’s future: FICA Compliance in South Africa made simple

To thrive in South Africa’s ever-changing economic landscape, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of your regulatory responsibilities, including compliance with the Financial Intelligence […]
August 25, 2023

Deciphering the dilemma: To sell or not to sell your property amid financial strain

Given the current economic climate, many homeowners in South Africa might find themselves facing the challenge of keeping up with their monthly bond repayments. In such […]
August 25, 2023

Can my employer refuse to accept my medical certificate?

The matter of a medical certificate has raised questions for quite some time. Many employers believe that if their employees provide a medical certificate for their […]
August 25, 2023

Exercise of rights and obligations under a praedial servitude

A servitude is a limited real right which entitles its holder either to the use and enjoyment of another person’s property or to insist that such […]
July 25, 2023

Is your business covered for loss of income?

It’s all well and good being paid out for your assets, but what about the foregone earnings in the meantime? Small business owners who have a […]
July 25, 2023

IRP5 not uploaded? Expect significant delays

When an employer’s failure to upload an IRP5 brings SARS to a grinding halt. One of my clients has recently retired and like all retirees, they […]
July 25, 2023

Starting a business in South Africa: Legal requirements and the Companies Act

Starting a business takes careful planning and involves compliance with certain legal requirements. It is important to understand the relevant regulations and legal requirements to be […]
June 20, 2023

Can trustees sell trust property to their own company?

The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) recently deliberated on whether a court sanction is necessary to validate the sale of shares owned by a trust to […]
June 20, 2023

Lenders of money are not all ‘money lenders’

In many groups of companies, intra-group loans make sense as a way of funding the operations of the group. If the funds are sourced from outside […]
June 20, 2023

How a data-driven culture can transform your business

In today’s digital era, data has become an essential resource for businesses to grow and thrive in a competitive market. But not all companies are taking […]
May 17, 2023

Precautionary suspension of an employee- What are the requirements?

The purpose of a precautionary suspension of an Employee is mainly to mitigate further risk to an Employer in instances where disciplinary action is contemplated. The […]
May 17, 2023

Rate hikes: Are buyers over-reacting?

Historically, interest rate hikes have had a dampening effect on the South African residential property market, with homeowners reassessing their affordability in anticipation of higher monthly […]
May 17, 2023

The creation methods of servitudes in South Africa

A servitude can be described as a limited real right that can either provide the holder with the use and enjoyment of another person’s property or […]
May 17, 2023

How to object to your income tax assessment

You and SARS are entitled to have a difference of opinion. This article, which was originally published in the May 2014 issue of Tax Breaks, has […]
April 20, 2023

Disclose your defaults before SARS finds them!

A grim warning for South African taxpayers. Long gone are the days when tax fraudsters could run circles around SARS, which has intensified its efforts to […]
April 20, 2023

Will solar power increase the value of your home?

The upfront investment is high, which you’ll want to recover when you sell. Stage 6 loadshedding is now firmly in effect, many South Africans are without […]
April 20, 2023

How to obtain a home loan: Things to consider before you apply

With most of the major interest rate hikes now out of the way, 2023 is set to provide a more stable environment for financially savvy, would-be […]
April 20, 2023

Finding someone to step into your shoes: Succession planning for your business

The Eskom crisis demonstrates again the importance of proper succession planning IoDSA. The current crisis at Eskom has a number of governance lessons for South Africa […]
February 28, 2023

Deducting bond interest when using an access bond facility

You can use a loan re-advance against your house to purchase a rental property, and get the interest allowed as a tax deduction – it just […]
February 28, 2023

Nuisance: the requirements, remedies and defences

Urbanisation, and the consequent magnitude of residential estates that are becoming increasingly dense and populated, requires individuals to abide by the municipal by-laws and regulations and […]
February 28, 2023

Why Your Business Should Place an Emphasis on Building Relationships

Every business in the world sells something. They sell goods or services in order to address a need or desire of a consumer, and to achieve a profit in the process (at the very least […]
February 28, 2023

Having ‘skin’ in the property game

Bigger deposits mean a smaller loan and a better interest rate. Rising inflation and several interest rate hikes have many South Africans trying their best to […]
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