Understanding the termination and acquisition of parental rights and responsibilities in South Africa

A parent may either have full or specific parental responsibilities and rights in respect of a minor child. The responsibilities

By Danielle Mylie 4 Min Read

Balancing Children’s Best Interests in Acrimonious Court Battles

On 02 August 2024, the High Court of the Western Cape of South Africa delivered a significant judgment involving disputes

By Isabel van den Ende 6 Min Read

Can I withhold maintenance if I’m denied contact with my child? Understanding your rights and remedies

In many cases, disputes arise when one parent withholds contact between the minor children and the other parent. The natural

By Isabel van den Ende 2 Min Read

Yes, we are! No, we’re not! Customary Marriages under the spotlight

A recent case, Mashisane v Mhlauli which was moved up to the Supreme Court of Appeal, shed light on the

Understanding the Divorce Amendment Act, 2024: What It Means for Muslim Marriages

The Divorce Amendment Act, 2024, is a significant piece of legislation in South Africa that brings much-needed clarity and protection

Understanding customary marriage in South African law

The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act (RCMA) of 1998 represents a significant step in formalising customary marriages in South Africa,

By Isabel van den Ende 5 Min Read

Shared Lives, Separate Laws: Understanding Cohabitation Without an Agreement

Cohabitation relationships refer to the act of living together with someone in an intimate and committed relationship without being married

By Danielle Mylie 11 Min Read

Customary Law in South Africa: Are you really married? 

Understanding Marriage Recognition  South Africa's rich cultural diversity influences our legal system, particularly in recognising marriages. Customary law plays a

By Isabel van den Ende 9 Min Read

Radio Interview: How is the amount for child maintenance calculated? Part 2

Part 2: Clement Manyathela speaks to Isabel van den Ende, Senior Associate in the Family Law Department at Barnard, about

By Isabel van den Ende 0 Min Read