Valentine’s Day isn’t just a great excuse to indulge in ruinously expensive red roses. It’s also a reminder that if you’re in a cohabitation arrangement, there will be financial implications – making it essential to check that your relationship’s legal aspects pass muster.
Advice
One wonders how many people trapped in unhappy marriages are put off applying for divorce by fear of what it will cost them. But there’s no need for that. An uncontested divorce needn’t cost much at all.
Hopefully 2026 will gift us some really positive movement in the property market. This is great news, but please note this cautionary tale from the Supreme Court of Appeal.
Your will is probably the most important document you will ever make, which is why it’s vital to understand that electronic wills are – despite media reports implying otherwise – not accepted by the Master of the High Court as valid.
As 2026 dawns with all its exciting new possibilities and opportunities, let’s not forget about all the annoying – but vital – legal aspects of our lives.
“South African drivers, beware! Scammers are issuing fake traffic fines to catch you off guard! Always use AARTO approved collecting agents for your payments.” (Road Traffic Infringement Agency)
“I have heard that in war, haste can be folly, but have never seen delay that was wise.” (Sun Tzu, The Art of War)
Particularly over the holiday season, many house and apartment owners in residential complexes will want to let out their units on a short-term letting / Airbnb basis.
“Forewarned is forearmed.” (Wise old proverb)
“A family name holds the music of generations – it’s the first inheritance we receive.” (Attributed to Irish poet-philosopher John O’Donohue)