Best Family Lawyers in Stellenbosch

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Christo Marais Attorneys
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Founded in 2007
English
Established in 2007, Christo Marais Attorneys is a distinguished law firm located in the historic Doornbosch Homestead in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Founded by Christo Marais, who was admitted as an attorney in 1986, the firm specializes in Property Law, Conveyancing, Commercial Law, and...
Kellerman Joubert Heyns
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Founded in 2018
English
Kellerman Joubert Heyns Incorporated is a boutique legal practice with offices in Stellenbosch, Ceres, and Yzerfontein. The firm offers a variety of high-quality, specialized, and personal legal services to a select client base, ranging from individuals to large corporations. Their services...
Stofbergs & Bekker Attorneys - Prokureurs
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Founded in 2019
English
Stofbergs & Bekker Attorneys - Prokureurs, located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including property transfers, divorce law, property law, wills and estates, family law, evictions, civil law matters, and criminal law. The firm is led by Director...
Van Zyl Scheepers Attorneys
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Founded in 2020
English
Van Zyl Scheepers Attorneys, established in 2020, is a client-centered law firm located in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including corporate and commercial law, litigation, mediation, arbitration, property law, trusts and estates,...
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South Africa Family Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 9 legal questions about Family in South Africa and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Hi, i am in urgent need of a lawyer regarding maintenace please
Family
The father never contributed to school fees and never will, now he has send me a lawyers letter to ask for 6 months bankstatement and 6 months payslip. What do i do please as i need to answer the lawyer on 12 Nov 2025
Lawyer answer by MAKASEB WAHLOUL LAW FIRM

 "Yes, he can claim the tuition fees. For inquiries and clarification of the case, contact us via the number, and we’ll be happy to assist you."

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1 answer
Divorce
Family
If spouse abandoned marriage for 13 years and a child is involved and whereabouts not particulary known now how do l dissolve marriage, In the most affodable way cost wise.
Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari

Hello, I understand you're in a difficult situation. I can certainly provide some information on how you might be able to dissolve your marriage in Louisiana, especially given the circumstances of your spouse's long absence. In Louisiana, you can file...

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1 answer
what can we do
Family
my sons girlfriend fell pregnant and they broke up. She told us she had a abortion and want to be left alone by us. Now we discovered that she did gave birth to a little girl and been keeping it away from us for a year. It seem like to... Read more →
Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari

Hello, good morningBased on the information you've provided, it's understandable that you are feeling distressed and concerned. While the mother's actions have significant emotional and familial consequences, it is unlikely she will face criminal charges for concealing the birth of...

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1 answer

South Africa Family Legal Articles

Browse our 1 legal article about Family in South Africa written by expert lawyers.

How to File for Divorce in South Africa: Step-by-Step Guide
Family
South African family law is built around the "best interests of the child" and the constitutional rights to dignity, equality and family life. Your matrimonial property regime (in community, out of community, with or without accrual) heavily affects what happens to assets and debts on divorce or death. Most everyday... Read more →

About Family Law in Stellenbosch, South Africa

Family law in Stellenbosch, a picturesque town in South Africa's Western Cape province, is a branch of law that addresses legal issues related to family relationships. This includes matters such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and domestic violence. Stellenbosch is renowned for its legal institutions and practitioners who are well-versed in South African family law. The local legal framework aligns with national standards while catering to the specific needs of the community, which can include international considerations, given Stellenbosch's diverse population.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Family-related legal situations can be complex and emotionally taxing. You may need a family lawyer in several scenarios, such as when you are going through a divorce and require assistance with the division of marital assets, or when you need to establish or modify child custody and visitation rights. Domestic violence victims may require legal protection, and a lawyer can help secure restraining orders. Prenuptial agreements, adoption processes, and disputes over child or spousal support are other common situations where legal expertise is invaluable.

Local Laws Overview

Family law in Stellenbosch is governed primarily by several nationwide statutes, including the Children's Act, the Divorce Act, the Maintenance Act, and the Domestic Violence Act. The Children's Act emphasizes the best interests of the child in matters concerning minors. The Divorce Act provides for the dissolution of marriages on grounds of irretrievable breakdown, continuous unconsciousness, or institutionalization for mental illness. The Maintenance Act facilitates the legal obligation to provide financial support for a spouse and children, while the Domestic Violence Act offers protection for individuals against domestic abuse. Local courts interpret these laws, taking into account the nuances of individual cases and community standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for filing for divorce in Stellenbosch?

To file for divorce, you or your spouse must submit a summons to the court. You can file in the regional or high court where you reside. The process may involve mediation and negotiation to settle issues like child custody and asset division.

How is child custody determined?

Child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Factors considered include the child's emotional and educational needs, each parent's ability to provide for those needs, and the level of each parent's involvement in the child's life.

What can I do if my ex-partner is not paying child support?

If a parent is not adhering to a child support order, you can approach the Maintenance Court. The court can enforce payment through various means, including income deductions or legal proceedings.

How can I obtain a restraining order in cases of domestic violence?

To obtain a restraining order, you need to apply at a local court and provide evidence of domestic abuse. The court may issue an interim order pending a hearing for a final order.

What is the role of mediation in family disputes?

Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties reach an agreement. It is often used in family law to resolve issues amicably without resorting to litigation.

Are prenuptial agreements legally binding in South Africa?

Yes, prenuptial agreements are legally binding and must be entered into before marriage. They dictate how marital assets will be divided in the event of a divorce.

How are assets divided during a divorce?

Assets are divided based on the marital property regime chosen by the couple. This could be in community of property, out of community of property, or out of community of property with accrual.

Can I adopt a child as a single person?

Yes, single individuals can adopt a child in South Africa. The process involves background checks, home visits, and approval by the relevant child welfare authorities.

What is the age of majority for decisions in family law cases?

The age of majority in South Africa is 18 years, at which point individuals are considered adults and can make legal decisions without parental consent.

How can international family law issues be resolved?

International family law issues, such as relocation or abduction, are addressed through treaties and conventions South Africa is signatory to, like The Hague Convention. Legal advice is crucial in these cases.

Additional Resources

If you're seeking further information or assistance, consider reaching out to the Legal Aid South Africa office in Stellenbosch, the local Family Advocate office for child-related disputes, or the Women’s Legal Centre for cases involving gender-based violence or discrimination. Local community organizations and non-profits may also provide support and guidance.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance, consider contacting a family law attorney in Stellenbosch to discuss your situation. Initial consultations may help clarify your options and rights. You can also approach community legal clinics for advice, or use online resources to understand more about your case. Ensure that you prepare all necessary documentation and evidence to make the most of your consultation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Stellenbosch 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 Family, 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 Stellenbosch, 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.