Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf Attorney Appeal Constitutional Court Supreme Court 

There is a Legal Responsibility on the Maintenance Magistrate and Maintenance Officer to actively partake and ensure that all relevant information is before the Court in a Maintenance Enquiry.

On 16 May 2019, Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf flew up from Cape Town to Port Elisabeth to argue a Child Maintenance Appeal. The Appeal was before the Full Bench of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court of South Africa, held in Grahamstown. It is the case of N v M (CA127/2018) [2019] ZAECGHC 73.  The Judges were Acting Justice S Rugumanan, and Justice I T Stretch. Advocate Abduroaf was instructed by Nicole Lawrence Attorneys of Cape Town. The appeal was argued on 17 May 2019. The Court increased the maintenance from R 1000 – 00 per month to R 5000 – 00 with costs. A 500 percent increase. The case showcases the responsibilities of the Maintenance Magistrate and Maintenance Officer to play an active role in a maintenance enquiry.

Factual Background of the Case

I have to appear in the Cape Town Maintenance Court for a maintenance inquiry. How should I prepare for it?

If you need to claim maintenance from another party, you can do so through the maintenance courts. This applies whether you are claiming maintenance for yourself or for your minor children. The procedure is generally the same in both cases. It is important to be well-prepared when going to court, and this article will guide you through the necessary steps.

Approach the Correct Court

Many people assume they can go to any court to claim maintenance, but that is not correct. You need to approach the maintenance court located in the area where you live or work. The maintenance court is typically housed within the magistrates’ court. We recommend checking with your local police station (SAPS) to find out the location of your nearest magistrates’ court.

Download the Maintenance Application Form

The process begins with filing a maintenance application at the court. You can download the maintenance application form (Form A) from the official website (Department of Justice). Make sure you understand the form and complete it as thoroughly as possible. It’s a good idea to draft your responses on a separate page or spreadsheet before filling out the actual form.

Gather Proof of Your Expenses

Courts require proof to support your claims. When completing the maintenance application form, be sure to collect evidence for the expenses you list. For instance, if you state that you spend R500 on groceries per month, keep the corresponding receipts from the grocery store as documentation. This proof is essential for other expenses like rent, education, and clothing. Maintain and update your proof of expenses until your case is finalized.

Conduct Your Own Investigation and Preparation

When applying for maintenance, the other party might claim they cannot afford support or may not be employed. Therefore, it is important to do your own research and prepare in advance. You may look for information online or check social media to gather relevant evidence regarding the other party’s financial situation. Phoning around may also help.

Request the Court to Appoint a Maintenance Investigator

The maintenance court has the option to appoint a maintenance investigator. We recommend utilizing their services, as they can assist in obtaining bank statements, conducting credit checks, and contacting employers for necessary information.

Stay Active in Your Case

Finally, remain engaged in your case. Pay attention to what the other party claims, and continue your research. Familiarize yourself with the relevant laws, read legal articles, and stay informed. Being well-prepared will help you present your case effectively in court and increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.