Looking for Family Legal Services in Belhar – Child Maintenance, Child Custody, Visitation Rights and Divorce Here at our law officers, we understand the struggle of your anxious search for family legal services. Most often, you under the impression that you may not find the legal services you require within Continue Reading
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Looking for Family Legal Services in Kenwyn- Child Maintenance, Child Custody, Visitation Rights and Divorce
Here at our law officers, we understand the struggle of your anxious search for family legal services. Most often, you under the impression that you may not find the legal services you require within close proximity. Look no further.Family Legal Advice Consultancy
We are a family legal consultancy that strive to cater for all your legal needs by offering legal advice and guidance in family law. If you happen to be residing in the Kenwyn area, then legal advice is still in your favor. Searching for a legal solution is tough enough and we are fully aware of this. With this in mind, we have made our legal advice and legal guidance easily accessible for your convenience. Our online system enables you to make an online appointment for a professional legal consultation within minutes, while in the comfort of your own home.Price listings for Family Legal Services in Kenwyn
We have managed to compile a straightforward price list of some of our legal services in which we offer legal advice and legal guidance in. With that being said, we often have potential clients asking us for an overall view of what the service will cost. When it comes to child maintenance, child custody, contested/opposed divorces and so on; then an overview of the cost cannot be provided as this will be depend upon nature and circumstance of the legal matter. See our legal services page for an idea of what some of our legal services will cost.Legal Advice in Kenwyn– Family law legal topics
For family law legal topics, we offer legal advice on a variety of family law topics, which include, but is not limited to:- Child Maintenance
- Ante-nuptial Contact
- Change Matrimonial Property Regime
- Child Adoption
- Child Custody and Access
- Domestic Violence Protection
- Family Trust Registration
- Fast Unopposed Divorces
- Non-Compliance with maintenance orders
- Parenting Plans
- Postnuptial Contract Registration
- Pre-nikkah Agreement
And while our consultation does come at a fee of R800; we have made our free, expert legal advice articles on our website, easily accessible for the layperson. See the following free, expert legal advice articles which was carefully crafted by the legal expert himself. These articles can be found within the following categories:Child Maintenance
- How to Apply for Child Maintenance at Court – Step by Step Guide and Advice
- Child Maintenance Question. How much should I pay or contribute as a p
- Child Support or maintenance claims. Does an unemployed father pay?
- Non-compliance with Maintenance Orders — Civil and Criminal Remedies
- Tricks and tips on how to win your child maintenance case
Child Custody
- The Law Regarding Children – The Children’s Act 38 of 2005
- Child born out of wedlock: Mother will not consent to her surname change and to be registered as her biological father. What can I do?
- How do I get full custody over my child?
- Parental Child Abuse in Custody Cases
- Relocate with minor child. Parent Refusing Consent for a Passport
- Father being refused contact to his child! What are his rights as a Father?
- Father’s Parental Responsibilities and Rights to his Child
- Urgent Access to your Children without a Lawyer
- Parenting Plans and the Law
- What happens in a custody dispute where one parent is mentally ill?
- How to win your child custody and access court case – Tips and Tricks
- Rights of care, contact and guardianship of grandparents to their grandchildren – What does the law say?
Divorce and Property
- How to Change your Matrimonial Property Regime
- Do your own Unopposed Divorce. No lawyers needed and its Free.
- Parental Rights of Divorced Muslim parents after a Talaq or Faskh
- Free Online Divorce Assistance Form – DIY Cape Town South Africa comprising of:
So whether you’re residing in the Northern or Southern suburbs, we can assist you in your legal plight. Call our law offices on 021 424 3487, and have our friendly receptionist make an online appointment for you for a face to face, telephonic or Video Chat/Skype legal consultation.Legal consultation – telephonic, face to face or via video chat / Skype legal advice for those residing in Kenwyn
Are you residing in Kenwyn and concerned that legal advice and legal guidance may be out of your way? This could never be more far off from the truth. Our professional legal consultancy have taken such circumstances into account and have managed to accommodate for those residing in the Kenwyn area. Our professional legal consultation can take place by virtue of video chat / Skype, email or telephonic for your convenience. We are currently based at Suit 702, 7th Floor, The Pinnacle (on the corner of Burg and Strand Street). Do you require an Attorney to handle your legal matter? No problem. Our law offices have built a wealth of legal connections to ease your plight. After assessing your legal matter during the consultation, we can refer you to an Attorney if necessary. However, we have managed to sustain a convenient online operation which will unfold within the following ways:- Call our friendly receptionist and ask to have an appointment made for you online which will only take a minute or two.
- You have the choice of deciding whether you would like a telephonic, email, video chat/Skype legal consultation.
- Once you call our law offices on 021 424 3487, the receptionist will make an appointment online for you. Thereafter, you will receive an automated email which will contain all relevant details about the legal consultation. The date, time, nature of legal matter and payments methods will be highlighted within the email.
- We urge potential clients to read their email well as well as the terms and conditions within the email.
- Only once payment has been made, will the face to face legal consultation be confirmed.
- Bear in mind that the date and time of the legal consultation is subject to change on either our part or the potential client’s part. Hence the potential client is free to change the date and time should they later find a more convenient date or time.
Call our law offices on 021 424 3487, and have our friendly receptionist make an online appointment for you for a face to face, telephonic or Video Chat/Skype legal consultation.Free legal products if you live in Kenwyn
Our law offices does not offer pro bono legal services as we are a Family Legal Consultancy that aims at offering expert, efficient legal advice and assistance on child maintenance, divorce, child custody and so forth. We have however, as mentioned previously, made our free, expert legal advice accessible to the layperson on our website. The creators of this website have compiled a “Free Family Law Resources” section, which can be found on our home page. The family law resources are as follows:- Free Basic Will Tool Kit
- Free Shariah Will Template
- Free Divorce Starter Tool Kit
- Free Child Maintenance Calculator
- Free DIY Urgent Child Contact Toolkit
- Urgent Holiday Contact Toolkit
You can now enjoy free, expert legal advice at the touch of a button. Call our law offices on 021 424 3487, and have our friendly receptionist make an online appointment for you for a face to face, telephonic or Video Chat/Skype legal consultation. Connect with us today!
Looking for Family Legal Services in Kenwyn- Child Maintenance, Child Custody, Visitation Rights and Divorce Here at our law officers, we understand the struggle of your anxious search for family legal services. Most often, you under the impression that you may not find the legal services you require within close Continue Reading
Updated: 16 April 2020
New regulations have been issued on 16 April 2020. Click on the link below: The material change is that you do not have to have a court order or a parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan, registered with the family advocate. Possession of a birth certificate or certified copy of a birth certificate is now also allowed.Update: 07 April 2020
NEW LOCKDOWN REGULATIONS REGARDING THE MOVEMENT OF CHILDREN – CERTAIN PARENTS MAY MOVE CHILDREN DURING THE NATIONAL LOCKDOWN PERIOD (7 April 2020)“The child must remain in the custody of the parent with whom the child was with, when lockdown period started” – Directive 6(m)(ii) in terms of the Regulations [30 March 2020]
South Africa is in a state of a national lockdown. Our borders are closed, the economy is standing still or barely moving. There are troops on the ground and police on high alert. The doors of businesses are closed and people are to remain at home. All these measures are in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 or the Coronavirus. This is an important and necessary measure implemented by the State to flatten the curve. The South Africa, we are living in today is far different than the one we lived in 10 days ago. Not many people saw it coming.“Continue paying your child support or child maintenance.”
Co-parenting during the National Lockdown Period
Before the commencement of the National Lockdown period, there was uncertainty about how the National Lockdown would affect co-parenting. And rightfully so. Parents had to consider the possibility of no movement of children during the national lockdown period. Not only for their safety and risking infection but for their children as well. What would then happen? Did it mean that the child would have to remain with one parent during the entire lockdown period? Or may they move the children around? This issue was resolved by the government and we wish to bring it to your attention.What does the regulation or law say?
In summary, and in layman terms, children are not to be moved between parents during the lockdown period. Have a look at the recent regulations. The regulations in place brought about serious challenges for all. Firstly, what if the parent who is not the primary caregiver, and not capable of caring for the children for extended periods had the children during the start of the lockdown? This parent-only knows how to care for the children for a few days at a time – not at all for 21 days. What if the conditions at his or her home are not the same as the primary home of the children? For example, in the primary home, the children have their room to share, and a bigger place to play, etc. All their clothes are there, also their schoolwork and extramural equipment. This is not the case at the home they are at during the lockdown period. Stepsiblings may also be living with them. The example above is a mellow one, but there are far more serious real examples out there. What if the child is prone to fall ill, and everything he or she needs is at the primary home? The list goes on.Parents abusing the lockdown situation
Then there is the issue of abusing the National lockdown situation. If a parent refused to return the minor child before the lockdown, then that situation would remain. The primary caregiver would then have to wait 21 days before he or she can physically see the minor child. This is the sad reality of the situation. Should you wish to approach the court for urgent relief, you would have to have very strong and compelling reasons why the child should be removed despite the regulations in place.What to do 8 days later?
Now that we passed the first week of lockdown, many parents never saw their children for the entire period. Many of those parents may prefer that there be a change in caring arrangements where the other parent can now care for the children for another week. Or a parent may want to only see the children for a few hours. Unless the government changes the regulations, that would not be possible.What advice do we have for parents during the remainder lockdown period?
Parents should work together to ensure that the child’s best interests are upheld during the lockdown period. Telephone calls, WhatsApp messages, and video calls, to mention a few should constantly be used, if possible, between parents and children. We also remind parents to continue paying child maintenance and child support during this lockdown period. 
Final advice during the lockdown period
Our final advice to all parents is to remain patient during these challenging times. The entire country is in lockdown and many other nations as well. Everyone is, therefore, going through challenges. Businesses are suffering, and people do not know if they would have an income after the lockdown period. If all goes well, and there is no reason to doubt that it would, at the end of the 21-days of lockdown, things would better. We, therefore, should all respect the government’s decision. Should the situation change during the lockdown period, Our Lawyer (Pty) Ltd would update its website accordingly. If you require legal advice, our online appointment portal is still running. All appointments are done telephonically or via video. We make use of WhatsApp Video, FaceTime, Zoom, and Skype. Stay home and stay safe.Update: 07 April 2020
NEW LOCKDOWN REGULATIONS REGARDING THE MOVEMENT OF CHILDREN – CERTAIN PARENTS MAY MOVE CHILDREN DURING THE NATIONAL LOCKDOWN PERIOD (7 April 2020) We are certain that you found the above article useful and interesting. Please consider sharing it on the share buttons below. They include Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Gmail and more. Someone may find it useful as well. Should you require business advice or services, feel free to click on these links: Business SA | Private Legal | Envirolaws
Updated: 16 April 2020 New regulations have been issued on 16 April 2020. Click on the link below: The material change is that you do not have to have a court order or a parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan, registered with the family advocate. Possession of a Continue Reading
Updated: 16 April 2020
New regulations have been issued on 16 April 2020. Click on the link below: The material change is that you do not have to have a court order or a parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan, registered with the family advocate. Possession of a birth certificate or certified copy of a birth certificate is now also allowed.If you have a court order, or a parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan registered with the office of the Family Advocate, you can move children during the lockdown period, if certain conditions are met.
Today, the Minister of Social Development, Ms Lindiwe Zulu, MP, made changes to the regulations regarding the movement of children during the lockdown period. It is now possible for certain children to be moved between parents during the lockdown period.The regulations apply to the following parents only:
- There are arrangements in place for the children to move for one parent to another in terms of a court order; or
- A parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan registered with the office of the Family Advocate; and
- In the household to which the child is to move, there is no person who is known to have come into contact with, or is reasonably suspected to have come into contact with, a person known to have contracted, or reasonably suspected to have contracted, COVID-19;
- The parent or caregiver transporting the child concerned must have in his or her possession, the court order or the latter agreement, or a certified copy thereof.
Below are the relevant regulations: 
Updated: 16 April 2020 New regulations have been issued on 16 April 2020. Click on the link below: The material change is that you do not have to have a court order or a parental responsibilities and rights agreement or parenting plan, registered with the family advocate. Possession of a Continue Reading
People often ask these questions when looking for a lawyer, attorney, or advocate to fight for you.
Are you looking for a tough lawyer, attorney, or advocate?
Question 1:
Hi there! I’m searching for a lawyer, attorney or advocate known for being tough and persistent. I need someone who will fight for my rights and protect my interests, no matter the situation. It’s important to me that they have a strong track record of winning cases and standing up for their clients. Can you recommend anyone who fits this description? I appreciate your help!Looking for a tough and persistent lawyer, attorney, or advocate
Question 2:
Hello there! I’m trying to find a lawyer, attorney or advocate widely known for their toughness and persistence. I need someone to go to great lengths to fight for my rights and interests. They must have an impressive record of winning cases and standing up for their clients. Do you know of anyone who matches this description? Your assistance is greatly appreciated!What to look for when searching for a lawyer, attorney, or advocate?
Answer to questions 1 and 2:
Certainly! Finding a good lawyer, attorney, or advocate is essential for ensuring that your rights and interests are protected in any situation. I recommend thoroughly researching potential lawyers, attorneys or advocates and considering their track record of success in cases similar to yours. It may also be helpful to seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends or family members who have had positive experiences with a particular lawyer, attorney or advocate. Ultimately, it’s essential to find a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer, attorney or advocate and someone you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests. Best of luck in your search!Finding a lawyer, attorney or advocate willing to fight for your rights and interests
When looking for a lawyer, attorney or advocate, finding someone willing to fight for your rights and interests is essential. As you research potential lawyers, attorneys or advocates, consider their track record of success in cases similar to yours and their overall approach to advocacy. It may also be helpful to seek recommendations from trusted sources and find a lawyer, attorney or advocate you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests. Good luck finding the right lawyer, attorney or advocate for you.Finding a lawyer, attorney or advocate who can work efficiently and effectively.
Finding someone who can work efficiently and effectively is essential when searching for a lawyer, attorney or advocate. As you research potential lawyers, attorneys or advocates, consider their track record of success in cases similar to yours and their overall approach to advocacy. Ask about their timeline for completing your case and their strategies for moving quickly without sacrificing quality. Additionally, seek recommendations from trusted sources and find a lawyer, attorney or advocate whom you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests. Good luck in your search!Finding a capable and intelligent lawyer, attorney, or advocate
When searching for a lawyer, attorney or advocate, finding someone intelligent and capable is essential. As you research potential lawyers, attorneys or advocates, consider their track record of success in cases similar to yours and their overall approach to advocacy. Ask about their timeline for completing your case and their strategies for moving quickly without sacrificing quality. Additionally, seek recommendations from trusted sources and find a lawyer, attorney or advocate whom you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests.Finding an Intelligent Divorce lawyer, attorney, or advocate
When looking for a divorce lawyer, attorney or advocate, finding someone intelligent and capable is crucial. Consider their track record of success in cases similar to yours and their overall approach to advocacy. Ask about their timeline for completing your case and their strategies for moving quickly without sacrificing quality. Seek recommendations from trusted sources and find a lawyer, attorney or advocate whom you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests. Good luck in your search!Searching for a Child Custody Lawyer, attorney, or advocate in South Africa
When searching for a child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate in South Africa, finding someone experienced and knowledgeable in family law is essential. Consider their track record of success in cases similar to yours and their overall approach to advocacy. Ask about their timeline for completing your case and their strategies for moving quickly without sacrificing quality. Seek recommendations from trusted sources and find a lawyer, attorney or advocate whom you feel comfortable working with and can trust to represent your best interests. Good luck in your search!
People often ask these questions when looking for a lawyer, attorney, or advocate to fight for you. Are you looking for a tough lawyer, attorney, or advocate? Question 1: Hi there! I’m searching for a lawyer, attorney or advocate known for being tough and persistent. I need someone who will Continue Reading
What is An Advocate in South Africa?
An advocate in South Africa is a legal professional who specialises in courtroom advocacy and giving legal advice. They are usually trained and hold experience in representing clients in court (High Court and Magistrates Court), drafting legal documents (Affidavit and Pleadings) and providing legal advice on various legal matters. There are two types of Advocates in South Africa. One is a referral advocate, and the other is a Trust Account Advocate. A referral advocate may only take on work referred to it by an attorney. There are certain exceptions. A Trust Account Advocate may take on work directly from members of the Public. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, barristers (advocates) are distinct from solicitors (attorneys), who are legal professionals but tend to focus more on advising clients outside of court and handling legal transactions.Why can Trust Account Advocates take on work directly from members of the Public?
All Trust Account Advocates have Trust Banking Accounts and Fidelity Fund Certificates. The Client would then pay money into the Trust Account Advocates banking account, which funds are protected. Therefore, should a Trust Account Advocate misappropriate the capital of a client who paid money into the Trust Banking Account, the Client can claim from the Fidelity Fund.What is child custody law?
Child custody refers to parents’ legal rights and responsibilities (Parental Responsibilities and Rights) over their children after a separation or divorce. This includes having access or contact with the child and making decisions about their child’s upbringing, such as their education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a child custody matter.What is child maintenance law?
Child maintenance law, also known as child support law, refers to the legal framework that governs the financial support a non-custodial parent must provide for their child. Child maintenance laws help ensure that both parents are financially responsible for their child’s upbringing and well-being, even after a separation or divorce. The law provides guidelines for determining how much child support should be paid, how often it should be paid, and how it is collected. In South Africa, we have the Maintenance Act and the Maintenance Courts. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a child maintenance matter.What is divorce law?
Divorce law refers to the legal rules and regulations that govern terminating a marriage. This includes the grounds for divorce, division of property, spousal support (alimony), child custody, and visitation rights. Divorce laws vary from country to country and even from state to state within a country. These laws ensure that the divorce process is fair and equitable for both parties involved. They provide a legal framework for resolving disputes and ensuring that the rights and interests of all parties, including any children involved, are protected. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a divorce matter.What does child relocation law mean and entail?
Child relocation law refers to the legal rules and regulations governing children’s movement from one geographical location to another. This can either relate to provincial or international relocation. This law concerns the child’s well-being and ensures that relocation is in their best interest. It entails a range of factors that need to be considered, such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the distance of the proposed move, and the child’s educational and social needs. Ultimately, the court will decide based on what is deemed in the child’s best interest. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a child relocation matter.What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each parent in the upbringing of their child or children after a separation or divorce. This plan is created to ensure that each parent is aware of their obligations and that the child’s best interests are considered. It typically includes details about the child’s living arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and financial arrangements. Parenting plans are usually created through mediation or negotiation between the parents, with the assistance of a lawyer, social worker, psychologist or the Office of the Family Advocate. A parenting plan can reduce conflict and provide a stable and predictable environment for the child. A Trust Account Advocate may assist a client directly in a matter involving a parenting plan.What is child guardianship?
Child guardianship is a legal term that refers to the responsibility and authority of a person to make decisions about the care, welfare, and upbringing of a child who is not their biological child. This can happen when the child’s parents are unable or unwilling to care for the child due to various reasons such as death, illness, or incarceration. The guardian then assumes the role of a parent, making decisions about the child’s health, education, and general well-being. Guardianship can be temporary or permanent and can be granted by a Court. The primary goal of child guardianship is to ensure that the child is provided with a safe and stable environment free from neglect or abuse. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a child guardianship matter.What is passport consent?
Passport consent is a legal requirement that specifies that both parents or legal guardians must provide their written consent before a child can obtain a passport. This is intended to prevent child abduction and ensure both parents have equal rights and responsibilities regarding their child’s travel. Passport consent is required for children under 18, although the age limit may vary depending on the country. Both parents must sign the consent, and in some cases, they may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of custody or a court order. Without the consent of both parents or legal guardians, a child will not be allowed to obtain a passport or travel internationally. This is confirmed in the Children’s Act. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a passport consent matter.What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is any form of abusive behaviour in a personal or family relationship. This can include physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse, financial control or coercion. Domestic violence can occur between partners, spouses, parents and children, siblings, or other family members. It is a severe issue that affects people of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Domestic violence can have severe and long-lasting effects on the victim’s mental and physical health, and it is a leading cause of injury and death for women worldwide. It is essential to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, as resources are available for support and assistance. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in a domestic violence matter.What is a prenuptial contract?
A prenuptial contract, also known as a prenuptial agreement or prenup, is a legal agreement between two people planning to marry. This agreement sets out how the couple’s assets will be distributed in the event of divorce, separation, or the death of one of the parties. A prenuptial contract can cover various issues, such as property ownership, spousal support, and inheritance rights. It is designed to protect each party’s financial interests and to provide clarity and certainty in the event of a relationship breakdown. Prenuptial contracts are not just for wealthy couples, and they can be helpful for anyone who wants to protect their assets and avoid prolonged and costly legal disputes in the event of a separation or divorce. A Trust Account Advocate may represent a client directly in an issue involving a prenuptial contract.What is a pre-nikkah agreement?
A pre-nikkah agreement is a legal agreement between two people who plan to get married under Islamic law. This agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of each party in the event of a divorce or separation. It can cover issues such as property division, financial support, and child custody. The purpose of a pre-nikkah agreement is to provide clarity and certainty to both parties in the event of a future dispute. It is important to note that the validity and enforceability of pre-nikkah agreements vary by jurisdiction and may be subject to certain legal requirements. A Trust Account Advocate may assist a client directly with a pre-nikkah agreement.
What is An Advocate in South Africa? An advocate in South Africa is a legal professional who specialises in courtroom advocacy and giving legal advice. They are usually trained and hold experience in representing clients in court (High Court and Magistrates Court), drafting legal documents (Affidavit and Pleadings) and providing Continue Reading
Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Bloemfontein?
A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases related to child custody and visitation rights. Family law matters can be very emotionally challenging for both parents. The same applies to the child concerned. Whether you live in Cape Town or in Bloemfontein, the law applicable would be the same throughout South Africa.Here are some qualities and characteristics that can define a great child custody lawyer, or the best one for your case:
Experience and Expertise:
- Specialization in family law, particularly child custody cases.
- Proven track record of successfully handling similar cases.
Knowledge of Family Law:
- In-depth understanding of family law.
- Awareness of recent legal developments and changes in family law.
Communication Skills:
- Effective communication skills to clearly articulate your case in court.
- Ability to negotiate and mediate to reach favourable settlements.
Compassion and Empathy:
- Understanding and empathy towards the emotional challenges involved in child custody disputes.
- Ability to provide emotional support to clients during a difficult time.
Strategic Thinking:
- Ability to devise a strategic legal approach tailored to the unique aspects of your case.
- Forethought and anticipation of potential challenges.
Availability and Responsiveness:
- Prompt responses to client inquiries and concerns.
- Availability for meetings, court appearances, and consultations.
Client Reviews and References:
- Positive reviews from previous clients.
- Recommendations from colleagues or other legal professionals.
Ethical Conduct:
- Adherence to professional and ethical standards.
- Transparent and fair billing practices.
Courtroom Experience:
- Comfort and confidence in a courtroom setting.
- Skillful presentation of arguments and evidence.
Resourcefulness:
- Resourcefulness in finding legal precedents and utilizing available resources to strengthen the case.
Problem-Solving Skills:
- Creative problem-solving skills to navigate complex family dynamics and legal issues.
Custody and Visitation Knowledge:
- In-depth knowledge of various custody arrangements and visitation schedules.
- Ability to advocate for the best interests of the child.
What should you consider when meeting with a family law attorney or advocate?
When looking for a great child custody lawyer, it’s essential to schedule consultations, discuss your case, and assess whether the lawyer, attorney, or advocate possesses the qualities and skills that align with your needs and goals. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from trusted friends, family members, or other legal professionals. Finding the best child custody lawyer involves thorough research, careful consideration of your specific needs, and evaluation of the lawyer’s qualifications. Here are some steps you can take to find the right child custody lawyer for your situation:Define Your Goals and Needs:
- Clearly identify your goals and priorities in the child custody case.
- Determine the specific services you need from a lawyer, such as legal representation, mediation, or collaborative law.
Research Local Family Law Attorneys:
- Use online legal directories and referral services to identify family law attorneys or Trust Account Advocate in your area.
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have gone through similar situations.
Check Credentials and Specialization:
- Look for lawyers who specialize in family law and, more specifically, child custody cases.
- Check their credentials, education, and any certifications related to family law.
Read Reviews and Testimonials:
- Read online reviews on legal review websites, social media, or the lawyer’s own website.
- Consider testimonials from previous clients to gauge the lawyer’s reputation and success rate.
Consult with Multiple Lawyers:
- Schedule consultations with several child custody lawyers to discuss your case.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask during the consultation, covering topics such as experience, approach to cases, and expected outcomes.
Evaluate Communication Skills:
- Assess the lawyer’s communication style and whether you feel comfortable discussing your case with them.
- Ensure that the lawyer listens actively and provides clear explanations of legal processes.
Consider Experience:
- Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in handling child custody cases similar to yours.
- Ask about their success rate and outcomes in past cases.
Review Legal Fees:
- Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during the consultation.
- Clarify billing practices, retainer fees, and any additional costs associated with your case.
Check Disciplinary Records:
- Verify the lawyer’s standing with the Legal Practice Council of South Africa.
- Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints against the lawyer.
Seek Second Opinions:
- If you have initial concerns or uncertainties, consider seeking a second opinion from another attorney or advocate.
- Compare advice and recommendations from multiple sources.
Trust Your Instincts:
- Pay attention to your instincts and gut feelings about the lawyer.
- Choose a lawyer you feel comfortable working with and who understands your unique situation.
Negotiation and Mediation Skills:
Assess the lawyer’s ability to negotiate and mediate, especially if you prefer an amicable resolution.- Remember that finding the best child custody lawyer is a personalized process, and the right fit for one person may not be the best for another. Take the time to thoroughly research and evaluate potential lawyers to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and circumstances.
We service clients in all cities: Cape Town Rustenburg Kimberley East London Nelspruit Polokwane Pietermaritzburg Bloemfontein Port Elizabeth Pretoria Durban Johannesburg
Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Bloemfontein? A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases Continue Reading
DIY Divorce in Cape Town, Western Cape
Complete the free online divorce form below to assist you with your unopposed divorce. View the following related pages: Free DIY Online Divorce Guide and Form A divorce guide in PDF format A Sample Summons in Word format A Particulars of Claim in Word Format A notice of Set Down in Word FormatCOMBINED SUMMONS
IN THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA
(WESTERN CAPE DIVISION, CAPE TOWN)
Case no.: JOHN WILLIAMS (PLAINTIFF)
(Identity Number: 0000000000000) And JANE WILLIAMS (DEFENDANT)
(Identity Number: 1111111111111) __________________________________ TO THE SHERIFF/HIS DEPUTY: INFORM JANE WILLIAMS an adult male/female, residing at 1 Apple Street, Apple Town, Western Cape Province (hereinafter referred to as the Defendant); that JOHN WILLIAMS an adult male/female, residing at 4 Green Street, Greenland, WESTERN CAPE, (hereinafter referred to as the Plaintiff), hereby institutes action against him/her in which action the Plaintiff claims the relief on the grounds set out in the particulars of claim annexed hereto; INFORM the Defendant further that if he / she disputes the claim and wishes to defend the action he/she shall:-
(a) within 10 (TEN) days of the service upon him/her of this summons file with the Registrar of this Court at Keerom Street, Cape Town a notice of his/her intention to defend and serve a copy thereof on the Plaintiff’s Attorneys, which notice shall give an address referred to in rule 19(3) for the service upon the Defendant of all notices and pleadings in the action;
(b) thereafter and within 20 (TWENTY) Court days after filing and serving the notice of intention to defend as aforesaid, file with the Registrar and serve upon the Plaintiff’s Attorneys a plea or exception with or without a claim in reconvention; INFORM the Defendant further that if he/she fails to file and serve notice as aforesaid judgment as claimed may be given against him/her without further notice to him/her or if, having filed and served such notice, he/she fails to plead, except, or to counterclaim, judgment may be given against him/her; INFORM the Defendant also that if he/she does not intend to defend the action, he/she may give written notice to that effect to the Plaintiff’s Attorneys and the Registrar and the action may then, at the written request of the Plaintiff’s Attorneys, be forthwith set down by the Registrar for hearing; And immediately thereafter serve on the Defendant a copy of this Summons and return the same to the Registrar with whatever you have done thereupon. DATED AT CAPE TOWN THIS DAY OF 2017. ………………………………………………………………
REGISTRAR OF THE HIGH COURT ______________________ ______________________
Per: JOHN WILLIAMS
(Plaintiff in Person)
4 Green Street,
Greenland,
WESTERN CAPE ______________________o0o____________________Fee Online Divorce Form and Guide
If you want to attend to your own uncontested divorce, we can to help you at no charge. Fill in the form below, and then our system will send you an email with the details you provided, which you should include in the divorce documents. [ninja_form id=35] Have a family Law appointment with us
We have an online appointments system which enables you to save valuable time and cut straight to the chase. There is therefore no need for you to visit our offices (unless it is best for you to do so, or is your most preferred option).
You may set up telephonic or video consultations should you wish to do so. You can therefore stay in the office or on the couch in the comfort of your own home when dealing with us. We are therefore physical, online, set-up and ready to meet with you. Make your appointment online for a consultation today. If you find any of our articles, free resources and posts interesting, or possibly useful to others, please like
DIY Divorce in Cape Town, Western Cape Complete the free online divorce form below to assist you with your unopposed divorce. View the following related pages: Free DIY Online Divorce Guide and Form A divorce guide in PDF format A Sample Summons in Word format A Particulars of Claim in Continue Reading
I am a defendant in a High Court Case. I want to defend it. How do you draft a Notice of Intention to Defend?
In legal terms, a “Notice of Intention to Defend” typically refers to a formal document filed by a defendant in response to being served with a legal claim or lawsuit. This notice is used in South Africa by the defendant when receiving a Summons issued out of the High Court of Magistrates’ Court. [caption id="attachment_11669" align="alignnone" width="670"]
Notice of Intention to Defend High Court South Africa[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11668" align="alignnone" width="718"]
Notice of Intention to Defend High Court South Africa[/caption]When do I file a Notice of Intention to Defend?
When a plaintiff initiates a legal action by filing a summons in court, the defendant is then served with the court papers. The Notice of Intention to Defend is the defendant’s way of formally notifying the court and the plaintiff that they intend to dispute the claims made against them. By filing this notice, the defendant signals their intention to actively participate in the legal proceedings and present a defense. The specific requirements and procedures for filing a Notice of Intention to Defend may vary depending on the Court. Failure to file a timely notice may result in a default judgment being entered against the defendant. The pictures to this article is an example of a Notice of Intention to defend issued out of the Western Cape High Court. It’s important to note that legal procedures and terminology can vary significantly between different Courts. If you are facing legal proceedings or need specific information about the legal process in your jurisdiction, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified legal professional. [video width="1080" height="1920" mp4="https://www.ourlawyer.co.za/wp-content/uploads/Notice-of-Intention-to-Defend-Adv-Muhammad-Abduroaf.mp4"][/video]
I am a defendant in a High Court Case. I want to defend it. How do you draft a Notice of Intention to Defend? In legal terms, a “Notice of Intention to Defend” typically refers to a formal document filed by a defendant in response to being served with a Continue Reading
FREE DIY ONLINE TOOLS TO GET URGENT CONTACT TO YOUR CHILD DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
The end of year holiday season is upon us. This is the time for families to come together and re-establish family bonds. It is also the time of year where many parents who are separated, or not living together, fight over aspects of contact to their children. Often times, a parent would be refused contact to his or her child for no good reason. This is not in the child’s best interests. We believe that children have a right to spend quality time with both his or her parents irrespective of what type of relationship the parents have amongst themselves. This way of thinking aids the minor child’s emotional and psychological development. With regard to how much quality time should a parent receive; this depends on the facts of the case. However, the deciding factor is what is in the child’s best interests. This is what we shall look at next.The Child’s best interests – Holidays or not
All parents need to conduct themselves in a manner conducive to the child’s best interests. In other words, they need to put their personal issues aside with the other parent and focus on what is best for the child. What often happens, is that one parent tries to punish the other parent by making use of the child. Therefore, they would prefer to alienate a parent from their child and refuse him or her any contact during the holiday season and other times. Often time children are left with a grandparent, aunt or non-relative to care for them whilst the other parent is busy during the holiday season. The child is the one that loses out in the long run. His or her development would be prejudiced, which could lead to serious mental and psychological developmental issues in the future. A child required both parents to bring him or her into the world. And in the same manner, a child requires both parents to live a complete and meaningful life. Having said this, if you are being unreasonably refused contact to your child, and feel that it is not in the best interests of the child, read further, and find out what you can do.What can you do if you are being refused contact to your child in the Holidays?
We don’t believe in resorting to litigation the moment a dispute regarding child care and contact arises. In other words, going to court at the first sign of trouble, or unreasonableness on the part of the other parent, is not always the best thing to do. Litigation is expensive, time consuming and may not result in the best solution for the parents and the child. Furthermore, you may have to expose the child to being assessed by third parties, which could lead to the child having to make certain choices regarding his or her parents.Parenting Plans
Sometimes, other professional people should be approached for assistance. Here we are referring to mediators, social workers or psychologists. Parents can meet with these suitably qualified people and try to mediate a parenting plan. A parenting Plan is an agreement between parents outlining their parental responsibilities and rights of care, contact and maintenance in relation to their child. It may include other relevant aspects as well. As the law currently stands, unless it is a matter of urgency, before approaching a court, parents must first try to enter into a parenting plan. If trying to agree to a parenting plan does not get you anywhere, then some legal intervention is needed. This is where you want a court to look into what is in the child’s best interests. A lot has been written on the topic of urgent contact on this website. Here are a few links on the law regarding child contact and Court Applications.- The Law Regarding Children – The Children’s Act 38 of 2005
- How do I get full custody over my child?
- Parental Child Abuse in Custody Cases
- Relocate with minor child. Parent Refusing Consent for a Passport
- Father being refused contact to his child! What are his rights as a Father?
- Father’s Parental Responsibilities and Rights to his Child
- Urgent Access to your Children without a Lawyer
- Parenting Plans and the Law
- What happens in a custody dispute where one parent is mentally ill?
Free DIY online form
What follows is a form which you can complete online, where after you would receive and email with the basic information required to get you started with an urgent court Application for holiday contact. Of course, you need to insert all additional relevant information. Once you received the email, you are on your way in making your Application to Court. For the purposes of this tool, we presume that you reside in the Western Cape, and will make use of the Western Cape High Court for the Application. You also need to obtain the Free DIY Urgent Child Contact Toolkit for mothers and Fathers. This is dealt with next.Free DIY Toolkit
Download the Free DIY Urgent Child Contact Toolkit for mothers and Fathers found on this website. This would greatly assist you as an extra tool. The toolkit relates to an Urgent Child Contact Application in the Western Cape High Court which would be of assistance in making an urgent application and completing the form below.Free Online Child Contact Application Form
Kindly complete the online form below. Once you completed the form, and submitted it, you would obtain an email with a Draft Notice of Motion and Founding Affidavit. You can then use those documents, together with those documents received in the Free DIY Urgent Child Contact Toolkit for mothers and Fathers and prepare your Application. We advise that you consult with a legal Practitioner to assist you in the application should you decide to take it to Court. Best of luck. [ninja_form id=47] This and other articles and posts found on this website are written by Adv. Muhammad Abduroaf to assist people with various family law related issues they may have. If you find any of our articles, free resources and posts interesting, or possibly useful to others, please like and share it on Social Media by clicking on the icons below. For more interesting articles and information on Family Law, view our articles and Q&A page. If you have a family law related legal issue and you want someone to answer or reply to it, feel free to post it on our Family Law Blog. Therefore, kindly like and share. Should you require any other legal services and advice, not related to family law, visit Private Legal.
FREE DIY ONLINE TOOLS TO GET URGENT CONTACT TO YOUR CHILD DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS The end of year holiday season is upon us. This is the time for families to come together and re-establish family bonds. It is also the time of year where many parents who are separated, Continue Reading