Best Child Abuse Lawyers in Durban

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Thembeka Mdunge & Associates
Durban, South Africa

English
Thembeka Mdunge & Associates is a distinguished South African law firm offering a comprehensive range of legal services. Their practice areas include administration of deceased estates and curatorship, repossessions and foreclosures, commercial and corporate transactional advisory services,...
Macgregor Erasmus Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

Founded in 2007
50 people in their team
English
Afrikaans
Macgregor Erasmus Attorneys Inc. is an innovative Law Firm that redefines the role that Lawyers ought to play by providing quick, pragmatic and robust legal solutions and representation which is bespoke to Multinational Corporations, Blue-chip companies, Large, Medium, Small, Micro-enterprises and...
THORPE & HANDS INCORPORATED
Durban, South Africa

English
Established in 1936, Thorpe & Hands Incorporated is a distinguished law firm based in Durban, South Africa, renowned for its comprehensive legal services and longstanding commitment to client satisfaction. The firm specializes in property law, litigation, wills, trusts and estates, labour law, and...
HARILALL NAIK PETERS ATTORNEYS
Durban, South Africa

English
Harilall Naik Peters Attorneys, located in Ballito, South Africa, offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including Criminal Law, Labour Law, Family Law, Commercial Law, Corporate Law, Tax Law, and Property Law. The firm is led by Directors Nikhil Harilall and Suvania...
Avir Maharaj Incorporated
Durban, South Africa

English
Avir Maharaj Incorporated, based in Durban, South Africa, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including commercial law, criminal law, debt collection, divorce, litigation, property law, and wills and estates. The firm is committed to delivering high-quality legal solutions tailored to...
Strauss Daly
Durban, South Africa

Founded in 1984
English
Strauss Daly, established in 1984, has evolved into a prominent South African law firm with a national presence, comprising nine offices and a team of 65 lawyers. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including property law and conveyancing, commercial litigation, banking law and...
Ngidi SS & Co | Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

English
Ngidi SS & Co | Attorneys stands as a distinguished law firm in South Africa, providing a comprehensive range of legal services across multiple practice areas. With deep-rooted experience in criminal justice, divorce proceedings, family law, insurance claims, and real estate transactions, the...

Founded in 1994
50 people in their team
Afrikaans
English
We are a private legal practice, operating as a partnership between Mahomed Essack and Ruwaida Hansa. Mahomed and Ruwaida, aside from being partners in law, are also partners in marriage. They were admitted as attorneys on 20 December 1994 and have established long lasting relationships with...
John Hudson & Company Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

Founded in 1952
50 people in their team
English
Afrikaans
The firm was established by John Charles Stewart Hudson in 1952 in the Durban CBD and has continued to practise in the Durban area ever since.  ​​We pride ourselves in being accessible to our clients and have supported families and business (both large and small) for over six decades....
M Jozana Attorneys
Durban, South Africa

English
M Jozana Attorneys Inc., located in Durban, South Africa, is a distinguished litigation law firm offering comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. The firm's expertise encompasses Criminal Law, Family Law, Commercial Law, Labour Litigation, Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims,...
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About Child Abuse Law in Durban, South Africa

Child Abuse in Durban, South Africa, consists of any act of harm or threat to a child's wellbeing resulting in physical, psychological, or emotional damage. The South African legal system sternly condemns all forms of child maltreatment, including neglect, physical violence, sexual abuse, and emotional or psychological harm. The legislation protecting children in South Africa are embedded in the Constitution and the Children's Act of 2005.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal intervention is usually essential in cases of suspected or confirmed child abuse. A lawyer is crucial in these circumstances to ensure the child's rights are protected and that justice is served. They can help in obtaining protection orders against the abuser, instigating criminal charges, claiming compensation, ensuring safe custody and care for the child, and advocating for the child in court.

Local Laws Overview

The South African Children’s Act of 2005 provides comprehensive protection for children’s rights, including protection from abuse and neglect. The act defines child abuse broadly and includes any form of harm or ill-treatment deliberately inflicted on a child. It also provides for detailed preventative and responsive measures in cases of child abuse. The Sexual Offences Act also offers protection specifically against child sexual abuse and outlines very severe penalties for perpetrators.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes child abuse in South Africa?

Child abuse includes physical, emotional, or sexual maltreatment, as well as neglect of a child's physical or emotional needs.

What legal action can be taken if a child is being abused?

Report the matter immediately to the police or a social worker. A respected lawyer can help you navigate the legal process by establishing contact with the relevant authorities and can represent the child's interests in court.

Who can report child abuse?

Anyone who suspects that a child is being abused has the responsibility and legal duty to report it. The Children's Act provides for any person, who is aware of the abuse, to report it to a child protection organization, the provincial department of social development, a police official or a social worker.

What are the penalties for child abuse?

Penalties varies depending on the nature and severity of the abuse. They can include imprisonment, financial penalties, or both. Severe cases of child abuse may lead to lifetime imprisonment.

Does a child have to testify in court?

If a child is old and mature enough to understand the proceedings, they may be required to testify. However, the court makes every effort to minimize the trauma involved. A lawyer can help ensure the child's experience is as minimal as possible.

Additional Resources

In addition to legal help, there are several organizations dedicated to the welfare of children, including Child Welfare South Africa and Childline South Africa. Both organisations offer assistance and resources for victims of child abuse and their families, including crisis intervention, counselling services, and advocacy.

Next Steps

If you suspect that a child is being abused, it is crucial to act quickly. Contact the relevant authorities, such as the police or the Department of Social Development, and seek legal assistance immediately. A good lawyer can provide the necessary counsel, guidance, and representation to ensure that the child is protected and the perpetrator faces justice. Remember, your initiative may save a child's life.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Durban through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Abuse, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Durban, South Africa—quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.