Insights

  • Adoption & wills in South Africa: Inheritance rights explained

    Adoption & wills in South Africa: Inheritance rights explained

    When a family welcomes an adopted child, it is a time of immense celebration. Legally, the bond is finalized through a court order. However, few people stop to consider how this monumental change impacts their estate planning. In South African law, specifically under Section 2D(1)(a) of the Wills Act 7 of 1953, adoption alters more than just…

  • Section 16 of the Deeds Registries Act: Your 2026 guide to property transfer in South Africa

    Section 16 of the Deeds Registries Act: Your 2026 guide to property transfer in South Africa

    In South African property law, the transition of ownership is not a mere private agreement—it is a rigorous, state-sanctioned process. At the heart of this system lies Section 16 of the Deeds Registries Act, the “gold standard” for how land and real rights move from one person to another. As we move through 2026, this…

  • From “I do” to “Who pays?”: Decoding spousal maintenance in South Africa

    From “I do” to “Who pays?”: Decoding spousal maintenance in South Africa

    Navigating a divorce is never easy, and the financial transition from a joint household to an independent one is often the most stressful part. In South African law, the topic of spousal maintenance—commonly known as alimony—is frequently misunderstood. Unlike child maintenance, which is a non-negotiable legal duty, spousal maintenance is not an automatic right. Here is…