The limited-time Free 15 (fifteen) minute legal advice consultation on child custody (care and contact) matters during the National Lockdown ENDED The free Free 15 (fifteen) minute legal advice consultation on child custody (care and contact) matters during the National Lockdown which was offered on 9 June 2020 ended on Continue Reading
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Top tips and tricks from a Senior Family Law Advocate on claiming maintenance for a five-year-old child in Thabazimbi.
Child Maintenance is the right of the child, and not that of the parent. It is also not a privilege granted to parents who must pay it. It is their duty to pay child maintenance and support their children. Once the child is self-supporting (being able to care for him or herself), the obligation falls away. This can happen when the child is 18, 20, or even 30. It all depends on the circumstances of the case.
Claiming child maintenance for your child in Thabazimbi
Whether you claim child maintenance in Thabazimbi, or any other city in South Africa, the procedures would be the same. There are however two (2) courts that can deal with child maintenance matters. That is a divorce court, in a divorce matter, and a Child Maintenance Court. For this article, we will focus on claiming maintenance in a Maintenance Court matter in Thabazimbi.
The maintenance scenario – Thabazimbi South Africa
In this article, we will deal with the following fictitious scenario, in a child maintenance matter:
- The Child is seven years old and attends school in Thabazimbi
- The child is cared for by the mother who works in Thabazimbi
- The mother works and earns a Salary of R 10 000
- The father sees the child every second weekend. He also lives and works in Thabazimbi
- The child’s monthly expenses are R 6000 – 00 which includes food, clothing, accommodation, education, travel etc.
- The father earns a reasonable salary and can afford the R 20 000 – 00 per month
- The mother claims R 4 000 – 00 maintenance as the father earns double her salary
What is the first step the mother must take in claiming child maintenance?
The first thing the mother must do is work out exactly what the child costs by item. She breaks down the minor child’s living expenses, starting from rent or accommodation to groceries to school fees etc. Once she has done that, she would need to determine what exactly does the minor child cost per month, seeing that she will be asking the father to contribute towards that. As best as possible, she needs to collect proof of expenses. This can be in the form of receipts.
How does she start the legal process?
The mother now needs to approach the maintenance court in the area where she lives or works to lodge a complaint for child maintenance. If she lives or works in Thabazimbi, it would be the maintenance court in Thabazimbi. She will complete a Form A wherein she will provide all the expenses for her and the minor child. She would also have to stipulate her income. Once she completed the form and submitted it to the maintenance court, she must then follow the next step.
What do you do while waiting for the maintenance court date?
While you wait to be informed of the court date by the Maintenance Court of Thabazimbi, and up until the actual first court date, you need to ensure that you keep a record of all income and expenses for you and the child. This is very important as the court allocates maintenance based on recent income and expenses.
What happens at the first court appearance at the Thabazimbi Maintenance Court?
Once you have been notified of the maintenance court date by the Thabazimbi Maintenance Court, you need to ensure that you attend it. On that day, both you and the father of the child would appear before a maintenance officer. The maintenance officer would go through both your income and expenses as well as that of the father. If all the relevant information is not before the maintenance court, then the matter may be postponed in order for the parties to submit it.
The maintenance officer will try to settle the matter and have the parents come to an agreement regarding the amount of child maintenance to be paid. If they cannot come to an agreement regarding the child maintenance to be paid, the matter would have to proceed to a formal hearing or trial before a Magistrate.
How does the Maintenance Court hearing or trial work in Thabazimbi?
Essentially, the maintenance court is called upon to make a fair ruling regarding what is a fair amount of child support that needs to be paid. For that to happen, the parents would have to give evidence in that regard. The mother would present to the court what the child costs, what she contributes and what she requires the other parent to pay. The Father would have a right to question the mother and to present evidence as to why he cannot afford the amount requested or why he feels it is an unfair amount. The mother can they also question him.
At the end of the day, the Thabazimbi Maintenance Court would be able to properly determine what is a fair and adequate amount of child maintenance to pay after being presented will all relevant information. The Thabazimbi Maintenance Court should play an active role in determining what is a fair amount of child maintenance the father should pay.
The above child maintenance application principles should apply to the following provinces and cities:
Eastern Cape:
Alice, Butterworth, East London, Graaff-Reinet, Grahamstown, King William’s Town, Mthatha
Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, Uitenhage, Zwelitsha
Free State:
Bethlehem. Bloemfontein, Jagersfontein, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Parys, Phuthaditjhaba, Sasolburg, Virginia, Welkom
Gauteng:
Benoni, Boksburg, Brakpan, Carletonville, Germiston, Johannesburg, Krugersdorp, Pretoria, Randburg, Randfontein, Roodepoort, Soweto, Springs, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging
KwaZulu-Natal:
Durban, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Ulundi, Umlazi
Limpopo:
Giyani, Lebowakgomo, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Sibasa, Thabazimbi
Mpumalanga:
Emalahleni, Nelspruit, Secunda, North West, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng, Mmabatho, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Northern Cape, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth
Western Cape:
Bellville, Thabazimbi, Constantia, George, Hopefield, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Simon’s Town, Stellenbosch, Swellendam, Worcester
Top tips and tricks from a Senior Family Law Advocate on claiming maintenance for a five-year-old child in Thabazimbi. Child Maintenance is the right of the child, and not that of the parent. It is also not a privilege granted to parents who must pay it. It is their duty Continue Reading
Top tips and tricks from a Senior Family Law Advocate on claiming maintenance for a five-year-old child in Lebowakgomo.
Child Maintenance is the right of the child, and not that of the parent. It is also not a privilege granted to parents who must pay it. It is their duty to pay child maintenance and support their children. Once the child is self-supporting (being able to care for him or herself), the obligation falls away. This can happen when the child is 18, 20, or even 30. It all depends on the circumstances of the case.
Claiming child maintenance for your child in Lebowakgomo
Whether you claim child maintenance in Lebowakgomo, or any other city in South Africa, the procedures would be the same. There are however two (2) courts that can deal with child maintenance matters. That is a divorce court, in a divorce matter, and a Child Maintenance Court. For this article, we will focus on claiming maintenance in a Maintenance Court matter in Lebowakgomo.
The maintenance scenario – Lebowakgomo South Africa
In this article, we will deal with the following fictitious scenario, in a child maintenance matter:
- The Child is seven years old and attends school in Lebowakgomo
- The child is cared for by the mother who works in Lebowakgomo
- The mother works and earns a Salary of R 10 000
- The father sees the child every second weekend. He also lives and works in Lebowakgomo
- The child’s monthly expenses are R 6000 – 00 which includes food, clothing, accommodation, education, travel etc.
- The father earns a reasonable salary and can afford the R 20 000 – 00 per month
- The mother claims R 4 000 – 00 maintenance as the father earns double her salary
What is the first step the mother must take in claiming child maintenance?
The first thing the mother must do is work out exactly what the child costs by item. She breaks down the minor child’s living expenses, starting from rent or accommodation to groceries to school fees etc. Once she has done that, she would need to determine what exactly does the minor child cost per month, seeing that she will be asking the father to contribute towards that. As best as possible, she needs to collect proof of expenses. This can be in the form of receipts.
How does she start the legal process?
The mother now needs to approach the maintenance court in the area where she lives or works to lodge a complaint for child maintenance. If she lives or works in Lebowakgomo, it would be the maintenance court in Lebowakgomo. She will complete a Form A wherein she will provide all the expenses for her and the minor child. She would also have to stipulate her income. Once she completed the form and submitted it to the maintenance court, she must then follow the next step.
What do you do while waiting for the maintenance court date?
While you wait to be informed of the court date by the Maintenance Court of Lebowakgomo, and up until the actual first court date, you need to ensure that you keep a record of all income and expenses for you and the child. This is very important as the court allocates maintenance based on recent income and expenses.
What happens at the first court appearance at the Lebowakgomo Maintenance Court?
Once you have been notified of the maintenance court date by the Lebowakgomo Maintenance Court, you need to ensure that you attend it. On that day, both you and the father of the child would appear before a maintenance officer. The maintenance officer would go through both your income and expenses as well as that of the father. If all the relevant information is not before the maintenance court, then the matter may be postponed in order for the parties to submit it.
The maintenance officer will try to settle the matter and have the parents come to an agreement regarding the amount of child maintenance to be paid. If they cannot come to an agreement regarding the child maintenance to be paid, the matter would have to proceed to a formal hearing or trial before a Magistrate.
How does the Maintenance Court hearing or trial work in Lebowakgomo?
Essentially, the maintenance court is called upon to make a fair ruling regarding what is a fair amount of child support that needs to be paid. For that to happen, the parents would have to give evidence in that regard. The mother would present to the court what the child costs, what she contributes and what she requires the other parent to pay. The Father would have a right to question the mother and to present evidence as to why he cannot afford the amount requested or why he feels it is an unfair amount. The mother can they also question him.
At the end of the day, the Lebowakgomo Maintenance Court would be able to properly determine what is a fair and adequate amount of child maintenance to pay after being presented will all relevant information. The Lebowakgomo Maintenance Court should play an active role in determining what is a fair amount of child maintenance the father should pay.
The above child maintenance application principles should apply to the following provinces and cities:
Eastern Cape:
Alice, Butterworth, East London, Graaff-Reinet, Grahamstown, King William’s Town, Mthatha
Port Elizabeth, Queenstown, Uitenhage, Zwelitsha
Free State:
Bethlehem. Bloemfontein, Jagersfontein, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Parys, Phuthaditjhaba, Sasolburg, Virginia, Welkom
Gauteng:
Benoni, Boksburg, Brakpan, Carletonville, Germiston, Johannesburg, Krugersdorp, Pretoria, Randburg, Randfontein, Roodepoort, Soweto, Springs, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging
KwaZulu-Natal:
Durban, Empangeni, Ladysmith, Newcastle, Pietermaritzburg, Pinetown, Ulundi, Umlazi
Limpopo:
Giyani, Lebowakgomo, Musina, Phalaborwa, Polokwane, Seshego, Sibasa, Thabazimbi
Mpumalanga:
Emalahleni, Nelspruit, Secunda, North West, Klerksdorp, Mahikeng, Mmabatho, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Northern Cape, Kimberley, Kuruman, Port Nolloth
Western Cape:
Bellville, Lebowakgomo, Constantia, George, Hopefield, Oudtshoorn, Paarl, Simon’s Town, Stellenbosch, Swellendam, Worcester
Top tips and tricks from a Senior Family Law Advocate on claiming maintenance for a five-year-old child in Lebowakgomo. Child Maintenance is the right of the child, and not that of the parent. It is also not a privilege granted to parents who must pay it. It is their duty Continue Reading
I am not happy with the Court’s decision. I believe it was unfair. What can I do? Can I take the decision on Appeal to the High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, or the Constitutional Court?
If you have an issue that can best be resolved through a court of law, then instituting legal proceedings is what you must do. This would apply if someone owed you money, you have a dispute regarding your rights, or you want to have access to your child. If you were a party to a legal matter that was adjudicated in a Court of Law in South Africa, and you are not happy with the outcome, you have a right to appeal the decision. This article deals broadly with the issue of appeal to the High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, or the Constitutional Court. Please note the appeal process from the Magistrate’s Court to the High Court is different from that of the High Court to the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court. Therefore, only take this article as a guide. Consult with an attorney or advocate should you require more, and specific information relating to your case.Trial or Application Court Decision:
The legal process typically begins with a trial or application court, where a judge or magistrate makes a decision on a case. This would be the court of first instance.Notice of Appeal:
If a party is dissatisfied with the decision of the court of first instance, they may file a notice of appeal within a specified time frame, indicating their intention to appeal. This document should be well drafted as the appeal court, court of first instance, and the parties involved would need to know what is the basis for your appeal.Obtaining the Record of Proceedings:
The appellant (party filing the appeal) must obtain a complete record of the proceedings from the trial court. This record includes the transcripts, evidence, and other relevant documents. Basically, the appeal court would determine whether the court of first instance erred in its judgment based on the information before it.Preparation of Appeal Documents:
The appellant, through legal representation, prepares the necessary appeal documents, which typically include a notice of appeal, a concise statement of the grounds of appeal, and other relevant documents.Filing the Appeal:
The appeal documents are filed with the appropriate appellate court, along with the required fees.Service on the Other Party:
The appellant is usually required to serve a copy of the appeal documents on the other party or parties involved in the case.Respondent’s Answering Affidavit:
The respondent (the other party) may file an answering affidavit responding to the grounds of appeal.Heads of Argument:
Both parties submit written arguments (heads of argument) outlining their legal positions to the court before the appeal hearing. This would assist the appeal court when dealing with the case.Appeal Hearing:
The appellate court conducts a hearing where both parties present their arguments. The court may ask questions, and the parties or their legal representatives may respond.Judgment:
The appeal court delivers a judgment either immediately after the hearing or at a later date. The judgment may affirm, set aside, or modify the decision of the trial court.Further Appeals:
In some cases, there may be the possibility of further appeals to higher courts, such as the Supreme Court of Appeal or the Constitutional Court, depending on the nature of the case. It’s crucial to consult with a legal professional or refer to the latest legal resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information on the appeal process in South Africa. Legal procedures can change, and specific details may vary depending on the type of case and the court involved. If you are unhappy with a court decision and require legal assistance regarding a possible appeal, feel free to contact us for assistance.
I am not happy with the Court’s decision. I believe it was unfair. What can I do? Can I take the decision on Appeal to the High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, or the Constitutional Court? If you have an issue that can best be resolved through a court of Continue Reading
I want to get divorced as soon as possible with or without an attorney or advocate. What are the legal processes and best way to proceed?
Divorce involves a complex set of legal, financial, and emotional considerations, and people often have numerous questions when going through the process. While specific questions can vary based on individual circumstances, here are some frequently asked divorce questions along with general answers. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and may not apply to every situation. Consultation with a legal professional (advocate or attorney) is recommended for personalized advice.- Q: How do I start the divorce process? A: The divorce process typically begins by filing a divorce summons with the appropriate court. Consult with an attorney or advocate to understand the specific procedures in your jurisdiction. Basically, the court you need to approach is where you or your spouse resides.
- Q: What are the grounds for divorce? A: Grounds for divorce are numerous, but may include irreconcilable differences, separation, adultery, cruelty, or abandonment. Basically, the marriage should have irretrievably broken down or cannot be saved.
- Q: How long does the divorce process take? A: The duration of the divorce process varies widely. It depends on factors such as the complexity of issues, cooperation between parties, and the court’s capacity or caseload. It can range from a few months to several years.
- Q: What is the difference between legal separation and divorce? A: Legal separation involves living apart and addressing issues such as child custody, support, and property division, but the couple remains married. In a divorce, the marriage is legally dissolved, and both parties can remarry.
- Q: How is property divided in a divorce? A: Property division depends on how you were married to your spouse. If you were married in community of property, then there would be an equal division. If you were married with the accrual regime, then there is no division, however payment of money to the other spouse. Consulting with a lawyer can help you best understand the specific rules regarding your marriage.
- Q: What happens to debts in a divorce? A: Debts acquired during the marriage are typically considered marital debts. These may be divided between the spouses during the divorce process. Consult with a legal professional to determine how debts are handled in your jurisdiction.
- Q: How is child custody determined? A: Child custody decisions aim to serve the best interests of the child. Factors such as the parents’ ability to provide a stable environment, financial situation, and the child’s preference (depending on age) may be considered.
- Q: How is child support calculated? A: Child support calculations are based on the needs of the child and means of the parents. They often take into account factors such as the income of both parents, the child’s needs, and the custodial arrangement. Child support guidelines are typically established by law.
- Q: Do I need a lawyer for my divorce? A: While it’s possible to navigate a divorce without a lawyer, legal representation is advisable, especially if there are complex issues involved. A lawyer (advocate or attorney) can help ensure your rights are protected and assist with navigating the legal process.
- Q: Can we settle our divorce without going to court? A: Yes, many divorces are settled through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative divorce. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court.
I need assistance with my divorce.
If you require legal representation or assistance with your divorce, feel free to schedule a consultation using the link www.ourlawyer.co.za/advice.
I want to get divorced as soon as possible with or without an attorney or advocate. What are the legal processes and best way to proceed? Divorce involves a complex set of legal, financial, and emotional considerations, and people often have numerous questions when going through the process. While specific Continue Reading
What are my rights and duties under a contract? Navigating the Complex Terrain of Contract Disputes: A Simplified Guide
In the world of business and commerce, contracts serve as the backbone of transactions, defining the rights and obligations of parties involved. However, despite the careful crafting of these legal documents, disputes can still arise, leading to potential conflicts and legal battles. Contract disputes are a common occurrence in the business landscape, and understanding how to navigate through this complex terrain is crucial for businesses and individuals alike.Understanding the Basics of Contract Disputes
Definition and Types
A contract dispute refers to a disagreement or conflict between parties arising from the interpretation, performance, or enforcement of contractual terms. These disputes can manifest in various forms, including disagreements over payment, delivery, quality of goods or services, breach of contract, or even issues related to contract formation.Common Causes
Several factors contribute to contract disputes, ranging from ambiguities in contract language to unforeseen events affecting performance. Common causes include misunderstandings, failure to fulfill obligations, changes in circumstances, and breaches of contract terms.Preventive Measures: Crafting Strong Contracts
Clear and Precise Language
The foundation of any contract lies in its language. Ambiguities or vague terms can become breeding grounds for disputes. Clear, precise, and unambiguous language is essential to avoid misinterpretations and disagreements. Parties should ensure that each clause is well-defined and leaves no room for multiple interpretations.Define Roles and Responsibilities
Clearly outlining the roles and responsibilities of each party involved can help prevent disputes. This includes specifying delivery timelines, quality standards, payment terms, and any other crucial aspects of the agreement. When both parties have a shared understanding of their obligations, the likelihood of disputes decreases.Anticipate and Address Potential Issues
Identifying potential issues and addressing them within the contract can mitigate future disputes. This may involve including contingency clauses, force majeure provisions, and mechanisms for dispute resolution. Being proactive in considering potential challenges can prevent disagreements from escalating.Common Types of Contract Disputes
Breach of Contract
One of the most prevalent types of contract disputes is a breach of contract, wherein one party fails to fulfill its obligations as outlined in the agreement. This can include failure to deliver goods or services, non-payment, or other violations of the agreed-upon terms.Misrepresentation
Misrepresentation occurs when one party provides false or misleading information during contract negotiations. This can lead to disputes if the misrepresented information influences the decision-making process of the other party.Ambiguity in Contract Terms
Ambiguous contract terms can be a breeding ground for disputes. When parties interpret contract clauses differently, conflicts may arise regarding the intended meaning of specific provisions.Unforeseen Circumstances
External events, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, can impact a party’s ability to fulfill contractual obligations. Disputes may arise over whether such events constitute a valid excuse for non-performance or if parties should seek alternative solutions.Resolving Contract Disputes
Negotiation
Negotiation is often the first step in resolving contract disputes. Parties can engage in discussions to find mutually acceptable solutions, whether it involves adjusting terms, extending deadlines, or addressing other concerns.Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
ADR methods, such as mediation or arbitration, provide alternatives to traditional litigation. These processes offer a more cost-effective and expedited means of resolving disputes outside the courtroom, with neutral third parties facilitating discussions and decision-making.Litigation
When all else fails, parties may resort to litigation, initiating a legal process to resolve the dispute through the court system. Litigation can be time-consuming and costly, but it provides a formalized structure for addressing complex contractual issues.Enforcing Contracts and Court Remedies
Specific Performance
In certain cases, a court may order specific performance, compelling the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations as outlined in the agreement. This remedy is often sought when monetary compensation is deemed inadequate.Damages
Monetary damages are a common remedy in contract disputes. Depending on the nature of the breach, courts may award compensatory, consequential, or punitive damages to the aggrieved party.Termination of Contract
When a breach is substantial, the innocent party may have the right to terminate the contract. Termination releases both parties from their remaining obligations and may trigger additional remedies outlined in the contract.International Considerations in Contract Disputes
In an increasingly globalized business environment, contracts may involve parties from different jurisdictions. This introduces additional complexities related to choice of law, jurisdiction, and enforcement of judgments. Parties engaged in international contracts should carefully consider these factors when crafting and enforcing agreements.Conclusion
Contract disputes are an inherent risk in the world of business, but with careful planning, clear communication, and proactive measures, parties can reduce the likelihood of conflicts. Understanding the types of disputes that commonly arise, implementing preventive measures, and knowing how to navigate the resolution process are essential components of effective contract management. Whether through negotiation, alternative dispute resolution, or litigation, parties must be prepared to address disputes promptly and effectively to protect their interests and maintain the integrity of their contractual relationships.
What are my rights and duties under a contract? Navigating the Complex Terrain of Contract Disputes: A Simplified Guide In the world of business and commerce, contracts serve as the backbone of transactions, defining the rights and obligations of parties involved. However, despite the careful crafting of these legal documents, Continue Reading
Family Law Service – Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf – Finding the best lawyer for you.
Choosing the right law firm (Attorney or Advocate) can be a daunting task in the intricate landscape of legal matters. Whether you’re facing a complex litigation case, navigating corporate law, or seeking legal assistance for personal issues, the decision of which law firm to engage is crucial. At the firm Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf, we understand the significance of this decision, and we aim to demonstrate why choosing our firm can make all the difference.Expertise and Specialisation
One of the primary reasons for choosing our law firm is our expertise and specialisation in diverse legal areas. As you can see from this website, advocate Muhammad Abduroaf practices in various fields of law. This breadth of expertise ensures that no matter the nature of your legal issue, you will have access to knowledgeable and experienced professionals who can provide tailored solutions.Personalised Approach
We recognise that every client and every case is unique. That’s why we prioritise a personalised approach to legal representation. From the moment you engage our services, we take the time to understand your specific needs, concerns, and objectives. This allows us to develop strategies and solutions customised to your circumstances, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.Commitment to Excellence
At Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf, excellence is not just a goal – it’s our standard. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality legal services, characterized by thorough research, meticulous attention to detail, and strategic thinking. Our track record of success speaks for itself, with numerous satisfied clients who have benefited from our dedication to excellence.Responsive and Accessible
Legal matters can be stressful and overwhelming, so we prioritise responsiveness and accessibility. Our team is readily available to address your questions, concerns, and needs throughout your case. Whether you prefer to communicate via phone, WhatsApp, email, or in-person meetings, we are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need when you need it.Cost-Effective Solutions
Legal representation shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we are committed to providing cost-effective solutions that deliver value for our clients. We offer transparent billing practices and strive to minimise unnecessary expenses wherever possible, ensuring you receive top-notch legal services without the hefty price tag.Ethical and Professional Conduct
Integrity and ethics are at the core of everything we do. Our team adheres to the highest standards of professional conduct, ensuring your case is handled with the utmost integrity, honesty, and discretion. You can trust that your legal matters will be handled with care and respect, and your confidentiality will always be protected. In conclusion, choosing the right law firm can significantly impact the outcome of your legal matters. At Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf, we offer expertise, specialisation, personalised service, commitment to excellence, responsiveness, cost-effective solutions, and ethical conduct. These qualities set us apart and make us the ideal choice for clients seeking top-notch legal representation. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your legal needs. If you require an Advocate Law Firm to assist you in your legal matter, feel free to contact us using the following details:- Tel.: 021 111 0090
- Email.: [email protected]
We service clients throughout South Africa. These include: Cape Town Rustenburg Kimberley East London Nelspruit Polokwane Pietermaritzburg Bloemfontein Port Elizabeth Pretoria Durban Johannesburg
- Tel.: 021 111 0090
- Email.: [email protected]
Family Law Service – Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf – Finding the best lawyer for you. Choosing the right law firm (Attorney or Advocate) can be a daunting task in the intricate landscape of legal matters. Whether you’re facing a complex litigation case, navigating corporate law, or seeking legal assistance for personal Continue Reading
Child custody, child maintenance, divorce, Cape Town, South Africa
Child custody, child maintenance, divorce, Cape Town, South Africa
Relocation with my minor child to United States, New York City (Consent and Refusal) – Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf
The world is becoming a much smaller place, and technology plays a huge role. People are moving across the world for employment, love and happiness, something that was not the norm a few decades ago. There is no reason why you should remain in South Africa if you can find a better life for yourself and your family overseas. Moving overseas may provide you with the quality of life you want or the possibility of experiencing things you always wanted. The same applies to your child or children relocating with you. Relocation of your minor child to New York City, United States
If you are single and do not have any minor children, then moving around the world would not be too complicated. All you need to do is ensure that you have the necessary travel documentation and travel ticket (and spending money), and off you go. However, if you want to travel with your minor children (for example, ages five or six) or relocate to another country, things may not be that simple. Firstly, if there is another parent, and he or she has parental responsibilities and rights, then his or her consent is required. For example, let us say you live in King William’s Town or Parys, South Africa, and you want to relocate to New York City, United States, you would require the other parent’s consent to leave South Africa with your minor child. This can cause challenges, especially if the staying parent (in South Africa) does not agree to the relocation. What about Passport Consent to travel or relocate to New York City, United States?
The same applies when it comes to your minor child applying for a South African passport to relocate to United States, or any country. Both parents who have parental responsibilities and rights of guardianship will have to consent to the minor child’s passport application as well. In this regard, both parents have to be at the Department of Home Affairs (or the relevant bank that also assists with passport application) when making the Application with the minor child. This can be challenging if you have a disinterested parent who does not want to cooperate with the passport application. As you will see later, legal action would need to be taken. What are the steps to follow when I want to relocate to New York City, United States with my minor child? There is another parent.
To simplify the process for relocation, the first step would be to receive the other parent’s consent in principle for the relocation and that he or she will co-operate in this regard. Once that has been resolved, the parent relocating would need to make the appointment for the minor child’s passport application as well as the application for the relevant VISA. Each country has different requirements; however, seeing that it is a relocation, you need to apply for the correct VISA. For that, you need the Passport.
Once the visa and travel arrangements have been finalised, the parent remaining behind will sign a parental consent letter for the international travel. That letter can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website. Basically, the parent remaining behind would state that he or she gives consent for the minor child to leave the Republic of South Africa and travel and/or relocate to New York City, United States. What can I do if the other parent does not want to consent to the minor child’s relocation to New York City, United States?
If the parent remaining in South Africa does not want to consent to the minor child’s passport application and/or his or her relocation to New York City, United States, then you would need to approach the Court. The Court, as upper guardian of the minor child, may order that the parent’s consent for the passport application and relocation be dispensed with. What this entails is submitting Court documents explaining why you want to relocate to New York City, United States. The other parent would also have an opportunity to give reasons why he or she objects.
At the end of the process, the Court would determine what is in the minor child’s best interests. If it is in the minor child’s best interests to relocate to New York City, United States, the Court would make it possible despite the issue of consent or refusal. What is the first step I should take if the other parent does not want to consent to the minor child’s passport application and/or relocation to New York City, United States?
If the other parent does not want to consent to the passport application and/or the relocation of the minor child to New York City, United States – in that case, we suggest you approach an attorney or advocate (trust account) to assist you with the legal process. He or she would then contact the other parent explaining the reasons for the relocation and request the necessary consent. If the parent remaining in South Africa does still not agree to the passport application and/or to the relocation to New York City, United States, then the attorney or advocate will proceed to take the matter to court. The legal route can be expensive. However, it is necessary to make the relocation of the minor child possible. You may also attend to the legal process yourself. Getting legal assistance or help with your relocation application to New York City, United States
If you require legal assistance or representation with relocating to New York City, United States due to the other parent not cooperating or providing consent, then feel free to contact us for assistance. The Firm Advocate, Muhammad Abduroaf, deals with these types of matters.
Relocation with my minor child to United States, New York City (Consent and Refusal) – Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf The world is becoming a much smaller place, and technology plays a huge role. People are moving across the world for employment, love and happiness, something that was not the norm a Continue Reading
The parenting plan as an agreement between two parents
If you are looking to have a parenting plan professionally drafted with our legal expert at law offices, then you have come to the correct place. Our Lawyer Pty Ltd is in the heart of the CBD, located in a central setting for your conveniences. Enjoy our free Wi-Fi and expert legal advice from the legal expert on board who will be advising you though the process.Parenting Plans
As for drafting your parenting plan, we able to tailor your parenting plan according to the unique circumstances in a manner that will benefit both. The aim when drafting a parenting plan is to ensure that the children gets maximum benefit from both parents so that they don’t feel lost in the process of a divorce. Lets face it, divorce is as hard as it is and even more so, when children are involved. The last thing you’d want is have them suffering in the process. For more on child custody, divorce, child maintenance and professional legal drafting, call our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment today. Get connected with us!The children’s Act and the parenting plan – how they gel
The Children’s Act reflects the child’s rights and best interest of the child which works in close collaboration parenting plans. Meanwhile, the legal expert carries a wealth of legal expertise which comes in handy when drafting your parenting plan professionally.Family Law Appointment
Call our offices today and have your legal appointment booked online immediately. Our Lawyer Pty Ltd is highly accommodating towards its clients and believe in making life easier for its clients. This is why we have decided to initiate an online appointment system as well as an online platform in which you can share your thoughts and post your legal questions. Connect with us today! Get your professional legal parenting drafted today.Family Law Links
Feel free to click on the links below and enjoy free, expert legal advice drafted directly from our legal expert on board:- 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?
- How to win your child custody and access court case – Tips and Tricks
Make your online appointment with us today!Our Family Law Clients
We firmly believe in family relations and the need to protect and enforce it when necessary. Therefore, proper legal advice must always be provided. This we strive to ensure. Although we are based in Cape Town, we offer legal advice and legal services to clients throughout South Africa. This we do as we believe in providing high quality legal services to everyone who requires it.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 and share it on Social Media by clicking on the icons below. Should you require any other legal services and advice, not related to family law, visit Private Legal. 
High Court Advocate Cape Town Western Cape
Or click here for the details of Cape Town Advocate, Muhammad Abduroaf or this advocate link to learn more. Visit our child custody and maintenance site for additional information. 
High Court Advocate Cape Town Western Cape
The parenting plan as an agreement between two parents If you are looking to have a parenting plan professionally drafted with our legal expert at law offices, then you have come to the correct place. Our Lawyer Pty Ltd is in the heart of the CBD, located in a central Continue Reading