Many South Africans turn to debt review as a lifeline when they can no longer keep up with their monthly credit repayments. The process is meant to protect consumers from losing their homes and other assets — but does it always succeed? And can a bank still take your house while you’re under debt review? Understanding Debt Review Debt review is a legal process introduced under the National Credit Act (NCA) to assist over-indebted consumers. Once a person applies through a registered debt...

In a significant judgment reaffirming fairness and equality in matrimonial disputes, the Gauteng High Court (Pretoria) ordered a wealthy husband to contribute R1.5 million towards his wife’s legal fees in their ongoing divorce proceedings. The matter highlights the principle that, in divorce actions, a financially disadvantaged spouse should not be left at a severe disadvantage when litigating against a partner with substantially greater means. The Background The wife approached the court...

The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has once again confirmed that unmarried partners may share in assets accumulated during their relationship, provided that a universal partnership  can be proven. This significant ruling reinforces the principle that cohabiting relationships — even without the formalities of marriage — can give rise to enforceable financial rights between partners. According to The Star , the case concerned a woman (“S”) who lived with her partner (“P”) for 16 years. During...