Family law in South Africa is a multifaceted legal field that deals with various aspects of familial relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody and inheritance. However, like many other legal areas, it is riddled with misconceptions that can cause a fair amount of confusion and stress for those navigating the system. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding family law that you might have heard.
Myth 1: Common-law marriage is legally recognized in South Africa.
One of the most persistent myths in family law is the legal recognition of common-law marriages. Many people think that if they've been living together for a certain amount of time, they are automatically granted the same legal rights as married couples. However, in South Africa, this common-law marriage does not exist as a formal legal institution. Unless the couple is legally married or in a civil union, cohabiting partners do not enjoy the same legal protections and benefits as married couples.
Myth 2: Mothers always get custody of children after divorce.
There's a common misconception that, in cases of divorce or separation, mothers automatically receive primary residence of the children. This is not true. South African family law specifically prioritises the best interests of the child when determining parental responsibilities and rights. The courts will consider various factors, such as the child's age, the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment and the child's relationship with each parent. Decisions regarding each parent’s responsibilities and rights are made on a case-by-case basis, and both parents will have an equal opportunity to present their cases.
Myth 3: Spousal maintenance is guaranteed in divorce cases.
Many people believe that in a divorce, spousal maintenance (financial support from one spouse to the other) is an automatic entitlement. In reality, South African law does not guarantee spousal maintenance in all divorce cases. The court will assess various factors, including the financial needs and resources of each spouse, the duration of the marriage and the ability of the spouse seeking maintenance to support themselves. Spousal maintenance is not necessarily an indefinite arrangement but rather a support mechanism to help the disadvantaged spouse get back on their feet.
Myth 4: You can skip child maintenance by mutual agreement.
Some parents believe that they can avoid their responsibility to contribute towards the maintenance of the child by reaching a private agreement between themselves. While voluntary agreements can work in some cases, South African law emphasises that each parent is responsible for this maintenance. It is always advised that parents have a formal maintenance order in place to avoid potential disputes. This also ensures that the rights of the child are protected and that maintenance is paid consistently and fairly.
Myth 5: Antenuptial agreements are only for the wealthy.
Antenuptial agreements are not exclusively for the rich and famous. They are legal contracts that can be tailored to suit the financial and personal circumstances of any couple intending to marry. In truth, these agreements are there to protect the interests of both spouses, especially in cases where one party has significantly more assets or debts than the other. A fair and legally binding antenuptial agreement can provide clarity and peace of mind for both partners, so you can start forever-after off on the right foot.
It's important to separate fact from fiction if you want to make informed decisions in family-related legal matters. Misconceptions can lead to misunderstandings, costly mistakes and unnecessary disputes. Contact Cawood Attorneys if you find yourself facing family law issues, and make sure you understand your responsibilities and rights from the very beginning. Navigate family matters with confidence and make informed decisions when you have a qualified attorney by your side.