I am in search of a trustworthy attorney or advocate. Please direct me to reputable sources to find one.

There are many reputable sources for legal advice and services. Some options include consulting with an advocate or attorney, reaching out to a legal aid organisation, or searching for legal resources through your various websites. It’s essential to research and choose a reliable source to ensure that you receive accurate and trustworthy legal guidance, advice or representation.

When do I decide that there is a need to consult with a lawyer, attorney, or advocate?

Consider consulting with a lawyer, attorney, or advocate if you are facing a legal issue or have questions you need help with. Some everyday situations where you may want to consult a lawyer include:  1. You have been arrested or charged with a crime;  2. You are facing a civil lawsuit or have been served with legal papers.  3. You are considering filing for divorce or dealing with a child custody issue.  4. You are starting a business or need help with business contracts.  5. You are buying or selling a home or other real estate property.  6. You are facing an employment dispute or have questions about your rights as an employee.  A lawyer can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensure that your rights are protected, and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. I think it’s essential to choose a lawyer with experience in law that pertains to your specific issue and who you feel comfortable working with.

Is it better to consult with an attorney or advocate virtually or in person?

Whether it is better to consult with a lawyer virtually or in person depends on your preferences and the nature of your legal issue.  Virtual consultations, such as video or phone consultations, can be a convenient option for individuals who cannot travel to a lawyer’s office or prefer the flexibility of consulting with a lawyer from the comfort of their home. Virtual consultations can also benefit individuals with time constraints or who need to consult with a lawyer quickly. However, in-person consultations may be preferable for individuals who prefer face-to-face interaction and feel more comfortable discussing sensitive legal issues. In-person consultations can also allow for a more thorough and detailed discussion of your legal issue and the opportunity to review and sign legal documents on the spot. Ultimately, the decision to consult with a lawyer, attorney or advocate virtually or in person is a personal one and depends on your individual needs and preferences. Many lawyers offer virtual and in-person consultations, so it’s important to discuss your options with your lawyer and choose the best option.

What is free legal advice by an attorney or advocate?

Free legal advice refers to providing legal guidance or information without charge or cost to the recipient. This may be provided by legal aid organisations, pro bono attorneys or advocates, or other resources that offer free legal services. Free legal advice can be helpful for individuals who are unable to afford the cost of hiring an attorney or advocate. Still, ensuring that the advice received is accurate and reliable is essential. Free legal advice may only sometimes be able to address complex legal issues or provide ongoing legal representation fully.

Are all advocates and attorneys the same?

No, not all lawyers are the same. While the High Court has admitted all advocates and attorneys, they may specialise in different areas of law and have varying levels of experience and expertise. Some lawyers may focus on criminal law, while others specialise in family law, intellectual property law, or other areas. Additionally, lawyers may work in private practice, government agencies, or non-profit organisations, impacting their practice and areas of expertise. I think choosing a lawyer with experience in law is essential.

Is there a guarantee that I will win my court case with a lawyer?

No, there is no guarantee that you will win your court case. The outcome of a court case depends on various factors, including the strength of the evidence, the arguments presented by each side, the judge’s interpretation of the law, and other factors. While a lawyer can provide guidance and help prepare your case, they cannot guarantee a specific outcome. It’s essential to have realistic expectations, be prepared for the possibility of an unfavourable outcome, and plan how to proceed if this occurs.

How often should I consult with my attorney or advocate?

The frequency with which you should consult with your lawyer depends on the nature of your legal issue and the complexity of your case. In some cases, you may only need to consult with your lawyer once or twice throughout the entire legal process, while in other cases, you may need to communicate with them more frequently. It’s essential to set clear expectations with your lawyer regarding communication and ensure you are both on the same page regarding how often you will check in and what type of updates you can expect. Also, please feel free to ask me any questions or concerns during the legal process. In that case, reaching out to your lawyer as soon as possible would be essential to ensure they can address them effectively.

What do I do if I am not happy with the outcome of the court case?

If you are not happy with the outcome of your court case, several options may be available to you, depending on the circumstances of your case.  Firstly, you may have the option to file an appeal, which is a formal request for a higher court to review the decision made in your case. You would appeal to the High Court if your matter were heard in the Magistrates  Court. An appeal can only be filed if there were errors in the legal process that may have affected the outcome of your case, such as the application of the wrong law, facts, procedural errors and so on. Additionally, suppose that your lawyer provided inadequate representation or made significant errors that may have impacted the outcome of your case. In that case, you may have the option to file a complaint or a malpractice claim against them.  I think consulting with a lawyer is essential to determine the best course of action in your specific case. They can guide your legal options and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed.
Posted on by Telelaw

I am in search of a trustworthy attorney or advocate. Please direct me to reputable sources to find one.

There are many reputable sources for legal advice and services. Some options include consulting with an advocate or attorney, reaching out to a legal aid organisation, or searching for legal resources through your various websites. It’s essential to research and choose a reliable source to ensure that you receive accurate and trustworthy legal guidance, advice or representation.

When do I decide that there is a need to consult with a lawyer, attorney, or advocate?

Consider consulting with a lawyer, attorney, or advocate if you are facing a legal issue or have questions you need help with. Some everyday situations where you may want to consult a lawyer include: 

1. You have been arrested or charged with a crime; 

2. You are facing a civil lawsuit or have been served with legal papers. 

3. You are considering filing for divorce or dealing with a child custody issue. 

4. You are starting a business or need help with business contracts. 

5. You are buying or selling a home or other real estate property. 

6. You are facing an employment dispute or have questions about your rights as an employee. 

A lawyer can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensure that your rights are protected, and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. I think it’s essential to choose a lawyer with experience in law that pertains to your specific issue and who you feel comfortable working with.

Is it better to consult with an attorney or advocate virtually or in person?

Whether it is better to consult with a lawyer virtually or in person depends on your preferences and the nature of your legal issue. 

Virtual consultations, such as video or phone consultations, can be a convenient option for individuals who cannot travel to a lawyer’s office or prefer the flexibility of consulting with a lawyer from the comfort of their home. Virtual consultations can also benefit individuals with time constraints or who need to consult with a lawyer quickly.

However, in-person consultations may be preferable for individuals who prefer face-to-face interaction and feel more comfortable discussing sensitive legal issues. In-person consultations can also allow for a more thorough and detailed discussion of your legal issue and the opportunity to review and sign legal documents on the spot.

Ultimately, the decision to consult with a lawyer, attorney or advocate virtually or in person is a personal one and depends on your individual needs and preferences. Many lawyers offer virtual and in-person consultations, so it’s important to discuss your options with your lawyer and choose the best option.

What is free legal advice by an attorney or advocate?

Free legal advice refers to providing legal guidance or information without charge or cost to the recipient. This may be provided by legal aid organisations, pro bono attorneys or advocates, or other resources that offer free legal services. Free legal advice can be helpful for individuals who are unable to afford the cost of hiring an attorney or advocate. Still, ensuring that the advice received is accurate and reliable is essential. Free legal advice may only sometimes be able to address complex legal issues or provide ongoing legal representation fully.

Are all advocates and attorneys the same?

No, not all lawyers are the same. While the High Court has admitted all advocates and attorneys, they may specialise in different areas of law and have varying levels of experience and expertise. Some lawyers may focus on criminal law, while others specialise in family law, intellectual property law, or other areas. Additionally, lawyers may work in private practice, government agencies, or non-profit organisations, impacting their practice and areas of expertise. I think choosing a lawyer with experience in law is essential.

Is there a guarantee that I will win my court case with a lawyer?

No, there is no guarantee that you will win your court case. The outcome of a court case depends on various factors, including the strength of the evidence, the arguments presented by each side, the judge’s interpretation of the law, and other factors. While a lawyer can provide guidance and help prepare your case, they cannot guarantee a specific outcome. It’s essential to have realistic expectations, be prepared for the possibility of an unfavourable outcome, and plan how to proceed if this occurs.

How often should I consult with my attorney or advocate?

The frequency with which you should consult with your lawyer depends on the nature of your legal issue and the complexity of your case. In some cases, you may only need to consult with your lawyer once or twice throughout the entire legal process, while in other cases, you may need to communicate with them more frequently. It’s essential to set clear expectations with your lawyer regarding communication and ensure you are both on the same page regarding how often you will check in and what type of updates you can expect. Also, please feel free to ask me any questions or concerns during the legal process. In that case, reaching out to your lawyer as soon as possible would be essential to ensure they can address them effectively.

What do I do if I am not happy with the outcome of the court case?

If you are not happy with the outcome of your court case, several options may be available to you, depending on the circumstances of your case. 

Firstly, you may have the option to file an appeal, which is a formal request for a higher court to review the decision made in your case. You would appeal to the High Court if your matter were heard in the Magistrates  Court. An appeal can only be filed if there were errors in the legal process that may have affected the outcome of your case, such as the application of the wrong law, facts, procedural errors and so on.

Additionally, suppose that your lawyer provided inadequate representation or made significant errors that may have impacted the outcome of your case. In that case, you may have the option to file a complaint or a malpractice claim against them. 

I think consulting with a lawyer is essential to determine the best course of action in your specific case. They can guide your legal options and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Related Post

What parents need to know should they wish to relocate from South Africa to the United Kingdom, Australia, United States, New Zealand or Canada with their minor child

 We often receive queries and requests for advice and assistance on issues relating to relocation to another country with a minor child. Related topics relate to the issue of consent for the application for a Passport for a minor child. Sometimes the issue of changing the child’s surname comes into the picture. Of course, if parents are in agreement regarding the issue of relocation and a passport application, all should go well. You may want to see a lawyer to formalise the arrangement to avoid any issues whilst the parent and the child lives abroad. However, if there are potential complications or issues of consent not being forthcoming, then this article would be of assistance.

Why relocate, or emigrate from South Africa to the United Kingdom, Australia, United States, New Zealand, Canada, or elsewhere?

In no particular order, you would find someone relocating from South Africa to the following destinations: The United Kingdom, Australia, United States, New Zealand, Canada, Angola, Botswana, Chile, Zimbabwe, Germany, Netherlands, Swaziland, Israel, Portugal, Mozambique, Ireland, Malawi, Switzerland. Namibia and Greece. The reasons for the relocation vary. For some, it is for a better life, work, or to live with a new spouse or partner. For others, it may just be to explore the world. If there are children involved, then relocation won’t be that easy. Especially so if both parents live in South Africa, and the other wants to relocate with the minor child. In other words, parents who have parental responsibilities and rights need to be considered.

Parental Responsibilities and rights of parents (Applicable to South Africa)

Generally, both parents would have parental rights and responsibilities over a child. We say generally, as this would not always be the case. Mothers automatically have full parental responsibilities and rights over the child. If a parent has parental rights and responsibilities over a minor child; this could entail the right and responsibility to care for the child, have contact with the child and at the same time to act as guardian for the child. This article would deal with the issue of guardianship. If the parties were married the father will automatically have full parental rights and responsibilities over a minor child born from the marriage. If the parties were not married then in short, if the father was involved in the child’s life, he can acquire full parental rights and responsibilities over the minor child. Involvement entails having regular contact with the child and paying maintenance if he can afford so. If the mother refuses to let the father have contact, despite him making a concerted effort, or he cannot afford to pay maintenance, that would be considered.

The parental responsibilities and rights of guardianship (Applicable to South Africa)

Guardians of a minor child have specific rights and responsibilities. Under certain circumstances, both the minor child’s guardians must consent for certain matters. In relation to this article, both guardians must consent for the departure and removal of the minor child from South Africa, and the application for a passport for the minor child. The same would apply for a surname change.

What to do if a parent does not want to consent for the minor child relocating with a parent overseas, for example, Germany?

Before a parent should consider relocating, he or she must first ensure that the child’s best interests would be upheld should the relocation take place. Therefore, the parent should ensure that all the following are attended to:

A decent place to live overseas

For the other parent (the one remaining in South Africa), and the court to properly consider your wish to relocate with the minor child, it is important that there is a decent place for the minor child to live, albeit very modest. It would be difficult to convince the court to allow you to relocate with the child if you intend to find accommodation only once you arrive overseas. Often a parent would live with a relative or friend overseas. In other cases, the employer would arrange for accommodation.

Being able to maintain yourself and the child after you relocated

We doubt that any parent would agree that you may relocate with the child to a country, for example, Canada and you would have to look for work only when you arrive there. This scenario would most probably apply to someone who has dual citizenship or is already a citizen of the country he or she intends to relocate to. But in this case, he or she wants to take the minor child with him or her. Arrangements would have to be made in South Africa. Obviously, one would require a work permit to remain in the country for an extended period of time. If you are relocating on a spousal visa, things would be different. At the end of the day, the court would have to be satisfied that proper arrangements are in place prior to consenting to the relocation when the other parent refuses.

Schooling for the minor child

When the minor child relocates, he or she would have to be enrolled in a school, let’s say in New York. If the child is a toddler, this would not necessarily be an issue. However, if the child is at school-going age, then arrangements would have to be made in South Africa, prior to considering the relocation.

Other factors to consider

There are various further factors to consider when dealing with relocation with a minor child. Some of them relate to how contact would be exercised while the minor child is overseas. Basically, each case is different. However, all relevant factors need to be presented to the court.

When to approach the Court

Once you have done your homework and made the necessary arrangements, you should finally request the consent of the other parent to relocate. If consent is not provided, then you would need to approach the relevant Court. An application would have to be made, with a Notice of Motion, and Founding Affidavit. The documents would also be served on the other parent who would have an opportunity to give their version. At the end of the day, the court would decide what is best for the child and not the parents concerned. 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              
Posted on by Telelaw

Family Legal Products

Our law offices boast a well-renowned family and business legal consultancy that aims at offering professional legal advice and guidance where necessary. We offer the following legal services which comes with an estimated cost for our legal products:
Ante-nuptial ContractsR 2 100 – 00
Basic Will DraftingR 1 000 – 00
Email Legal Advice (per question)R 299 – 00
Family Trust RegistrationR 7500 – 00
Shariah Will Drafting R 950 – 00
Unopposed Divorces R 9500 – 00
For your convenience, we are also professional legal drafters of Ante-Nuptial Contracts – which will cost you a total of R2 100 – 00. Furthermore, we have a professional online method in which you can call our offices on 021 424 3487, for an online appointment to be made for you. Once an online appointment has been made for any of the above legal services, whether a telephonic or face to face (depending on client preference), a consultation will be conducted with the legal expert himself. It is however, crucial to note that all of the above fixed costs includes expert legal advice from a well experienced legal expert  – as well as the necessary service required. Unfortunately we will not be held responsible for any additional costs required outside the service we offer.

Business legal services

Are you a business owner or self-starting business enthusiast? For many, starting a business or taking that first step can be extremely daunting. We understand this – which is why we have made business legal guidance available at our law offices for your convenience. Would you like some legal guidance on how to go about your business in the legal framework of things? Do not hesitate to call our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment to consult with the legal expert. We offer the following business legal services:
  • Business Legal Support
  • Business Legislation Compliance
  • Drafting of Business Contacts
  • Drafting Employment Contacts
  • Business Legal Training
  • Private and Non Profit Company Registrations
  • Credit Profiles
  • Business Trusts Registration
For more on our business legal support consultations, call our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment today.

Family Trust Registrations

The objective of a trust is to help manage your assets more efficiently. A trust allows you to dictate how and when you would want your assets to be distributed. Before going forth with a trust, you need to understand why you’re getting a trust. The following are important pointers to consider when getting a trust:
  • Understand why you are setting up the trust: think about the purpose of the trust.
  • What type of trust you would like to set up: find out more about the different type of trusts and make a call as to which trust you will require.
  • Property and assets: think about how you like to set out the rules of the trust and think about how this will govern your property and assets.
  • Beneficiaries: the person who will benefit from your assets. Think about who your beneficiaries are and how they will benefit – will it be a few beneficiaries or will it be an institution?
  • Trustee: this is the one who is in charge of the trust. He/she must understand the expectations and rules of the trust and ensure that all is in order.
  • Rules: different trusts have different rules. Your legal expert will explain this you when attempting to register your trust. It is important that the rules are carried out accordingly.
For more on our legal guidance regarding Trusts, see our Family Trust Registrations page. Bear in mind that a professional legal consultation is vital in understanding the factors at play when offering legal guidance for a Trust. The consultation fee will be deducted from the fixed cost of the Family Trust Registration with us – which comes to a total of R7 500 – 00.

Family Trust VS your Last Will and Testament

First of all, a will is a written document signed with witnesses which indicates how your assets will be distributed at the time of your death. A will is effective only after your death by which all wishes of the deceased must be carried out accordingly. For professional legal drafting of a Will, do feel free to call our our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment for a professional legal consultation today. Connect with us!        
Posted on by Telelaw

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