Divorce in South Africa: Legal Grounds, Procedures, and What to Expect

When a marriage has reached a point of no return, South African law provides clear mechanisms for legally ending the union. The Divorce Act 70 of 1979 sets out the grounds for divorce in South Africa, and the court system plays a central role in ensuring the process is lawful, fair, and consistent. Unlike older […]

Workplace Relationships and Employer Liability

The Labour Court’s decision in Mediclinic Nelspruit (Pty) Ltd v Shiba and Others has placed workplace romances under the spotlight. The judgment serves as a cautionary tale for employers about the reputational, legal, and operational risks that can arise when personal relationships break down inside the workplace. Background: HR Professional Crosses the Line Charles Thamsanqa […]

Grandfather Clauses in Retrenchment: Lessons from AMCU v Aberdare Cables

In South African labour law, disputes over pay disparities often lead to claims of unfair discrimination. A recent case, AMCU obo Members v Aberdare Cables, illustrates how courts evaluate these claims, particularly when differences in wages are tied to collective agreements and not to protected grounds. The Dispute: New Hires on Lower Wages Following a […]

When Does a Trustee Mandate Expire? Insights from South African Case Law

In South African trust law, mandates are an essential mechanism that allow individuals, companies, or trusts to appoint an agent to act on their behalf. These instructions (commonly given to attorneys, financial advisors, or service providers) are particularly valuable when it is inconvenient or impractical for trustees or beneficiaries to act directly. For example, appointing […]

Labour Broking in South Africa: Who Is the Real Employer?

Temporary Employment Services (TES), more commonly known as labour broking, remain one of the most contested areas of South African labour law. These arrangements provide employers with staffing flexibility but raise serious questions about workers’ rights, employer accountability, and compliance with the Labour Relations Act (LRA) and Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). At the […]