When it comes to property rights in South Africa, servitude is a crucial legal concept that affects both landowners and third parties. Whether you’re purchasing property, dealing with access rights, or developing land, understanding servitude is essential. A...
“All that glisters is not gold” (William Shakespeare in Merchant of Venice) Buying or selling a home could be one of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make. It’s an exciting time – but don’t lose sight of the need to tread with care. A key...
“O, I do not like that paying back.” (Falstaff, in Shakespeare’s Henry IV Part I) A standard clause in loan agreements, suretyships and the like is the “certificate of balance” or “COB” clause. Typically, it will read something like this (but...
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with the legal matters that follow can be overwhelming—especially if the deceased left no will behind. In South Africa, the Intestate Succession Act provides a framework for distributing a person’s estate when they die...
“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” (Pablo Picasso) If you own assets outside South Africa, you may have wondered: Is my local will enough? This is a question many South Africans are asking, and the answer will...
Estate planning in South Africa has evolved to include a variety of strategies designed to protect assets, ensure proper wealth distribution, and minimise tax liabilities. One such strategy that has gained prominence is the inter vivos trust. Often referred to as a...
