Why the POPI Act matters
The right to privacy is enshrined in Section 14 of South Africa’s Constitution and we understand it to be a vital human right. It states: “Everyone has the right to privacy, which includes the right not to have – (a) their person or home searched; (b) their property searched; (c) their possessions seized; (d) the privacy of their communications […]
Do annuities form part of the estate during a divorce?
In the case of CM v EM it was held in the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa (“SCA”), case number 10861/2018, that: “The value of the Respondent’s right to future annuity payments in respect of Personal Portfolio Living Annuities (“the living annuities”) from Glacier Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd, a member of the Sanlam Group, is […]
Sectional titles: What is the role of the body corporate?
When it comes to sectional title schemes, there is still widespread misunderstanding of even the basics, starting with the body corporate and how it is established, as well as what its functions and powers are. This misunderstanding often gives rise to many problems and disputes in sectional title schemes which could quite easily have been […]
Managing disputes over a deceased relative’s estate
Managing disputes over a deceased relative’s estate If someone leaves a sizeable estate behind, it may cause conflict among the possible heirs. The help of an attorney, when settling an estate after a death, can avoid unnecessary troubles. The Administration of Estates Act, 1965, determines what must happen with an estate after a person’s […]
What is voluntary sequestration?
What is voluntary sequestration? The term “insolvency” relates to both sequestration (for individuals and trusts) and liquidation (for companies and close corporations). Sequestration can either be effected by voluntary sequestration or compulsory sequestration. This article will deal with voluntary sequestration, where the person applying to the Court for sequestration is the insolvent individual himself/herself. […]
Important steps for the transfer of property
The transfer process can take up to three-months, sometimes longer. There are different steps involved in the transfer of a property, these include: Instruction. A conveyancer receives the instruction to transfer the property. Communication. The conveyancer communicates with the various role-players involved in the transfer process, such as the seller, purchaser, transfer and bond […]
Do I need an antenuptial contract before marriage?
An antenuptial contract is an important document that, under South African law, determines whether your marriage will exist in community of property or out of community of property, with or without the accrual system. An antenuptial contract offers a number of benefits: Preventing your intended marriage from automatically being in community of property Offering […]
What is a Title Deed?
If you are planning to buy a new property, you will need to get the title deed transferred into your name to prove that you are the owner of the property. You will need the assistance of a lawyer specialising in property transfers (also known as a conveyancer) to help you transfer the title […]
Why is my property transfer taking so long?
Why is my property transfer taking so long? After signing a deed of sale, the purchasers often want to move into the property as soon as possible. When they are informed of the process involved prior to the property being transferred this may damper their excitement. There may also be delays in the transaction. […]
Planning your Estate as Newlyweds
For newlyweds, one of the most important tasks to attend to is estate planning. The estate planning will depend on what the couple wants and what form of marriage they are in. It is therefore important to keep the following in mind when planning the years ahead together. Marriage in community of property There […]