Child custody for fathers During our years of experience in dealing with child custody battles, we have found it common for fathers fighting for child custody and wanting to know more about their legal rights. Unfortunately, a father paying child maintenance will not be guaranteed full child custody of a child. For more on father’s rights in child custody, click on the links below and read our free, expert legal advice article on how to go about your legal rights as a father. Child custody visitation access- questions and answers Child custody frequently asked questions Father refused contact to his child. What are his rights? Father's parental responsibilities and rights to his child. How do I get full custody over my child? Parental child abuse in custody cases- Cape Town What does it mean when you have primary residential custody? What happens in a case custody dispute when one parent is mentally ill? Feel free to call our law offices on 021 424 3487, or our national number on 087 701 1124 if you’re residing out of Cape Town. We are conveniently situated in the heart of the buzzing CBD at The Pinnacle, Suit 702, 7th floor, corner of Strand and Burg ...

How do I obtain contact, custody or visitation to my child? I need some advice and assistance. Issues of child custody, visitation or guardianship rights are usually difficult for parents to deal with. Parents have an inherent right and duty to form part of their child's lives. Here we refer to parental rights and responsibilities.  However, it often happens that parents of a child cannot see eye to eye as to what is in their child's best interests. More often than not, when parents are divorced, separated, or not living together, issues arise regarding the children they share. And then there is the case where parents want full custody over their children. These issues may range from the amount of contact the other parent may have, the school the child may attend, or what extra-mural activities the child should pursue. Either way, should parents not be on the same page, outside help may be required. Read on to find out more about the law, factors and your rights. With some advice, your situation may become easier. What are Parental Responsibilities and rights to a child? Know your rights: The terms used to refer to the rights and responsibilities of parents ...

I am concerned about my niece's wellbeing. Is it possible for me to obtain rights of custody and guardianship over her? The parents are still alive but divorced. We often receive enquiries from family members of minor children wanting to know whether they can obtain rights of custody or guardianship over a minor child. The client could be a grandmother, an aunt, or in some instances, a former step-parent. Let us take you through a scenario where an aunt wishes to obtain sole custody and guardianship over a minor child. Should you be an interested party wishing to obtain parental responsibilities and rights over a minor child; feel free to contact us for a legal advice consultation. The scenario: The minor child is being primarily cared for by the paternal aunt The parents of a minor child, age 16, are married and living together. The minor child, who is in grade 10, frequents the home of her paternal aunt. The parents live very busy lives, and often have to travel overseas on separate business trips for extended periods. The minor child sometimes doesn’t see her parents for weeks on end. Nonetheless, she is well cared for by her aunt, during ...

Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Johannesburg? A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases related to child custody and visitation rights. Family law matters can be very emotionally challenging for both parents. The same applies to the child concerned. Whether you live in Durban or in Johannesburg, the law applicable would be the same throughout South Africa. Here are some qualities and characteristics that can define a great child custody lawyer, or the best one for your case: Experience and Expertise: Specialization in family law, particularly child custody cases. Proven track record of successfully handling similar cases. Knowledge of Family Law: In-depth understanding of family law. Awareness of recent legal developments and changes in family law. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to clearly articulate your case in court. Ability to negotiate and mediate to reach favourable settlements. Compassion and Empathy: Understanding and empathy towards the emotional challenges involved in child custody disputes. Ability to provide emotional support to clients during a difficult time. Strategic ...

Frequently Asked Questions on Child Custody - Cape Town We hold a wealth of knowledge on family legal matters, in relation to South African law. This includes issues and questions surrounding child custody, divorce and child maintenance. Feel free to browse through the question and answers below. Should you not find the answer to a child custody question you are looking for, feel free to post your divorce question here. For more questions on child custody, visit this page. Can you change the baby's last name without the father's consent? No, you require his consent. If he does not want to give consent, then you may approach a court of law. This answer is based on the presumption that the father has parental responsibilities and rights over the child. Do I have parental rights if I am not on the birth certificate? Yes, it is possible that you have. How do you change your last name on your birth certificate? You need to apply to the Department of Home Affairs. How do I apply for child maintenance in South Africa? You should approach the maintenance court. Can you change your child's surname? Yes, you can. Both parents should consent. How ...

Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Pretoria? A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases related to child custody and visitation rights. Family law matters can be very emotionally challenging for both parents. The same applies to the child concerned. Whether you live in Cape Town or in Pretoria, the law applicable would be the same throughout South Africa. Here are some qualities and characteristics that can define a great child custody lawyer, or the best one for your case: Experience and Expertise: Specialization in family law, particularly child custody cases. Proven track record of successfully handling similar cases. Knowledge of Family Law: In-depth understanding of family law. Awareness of recent legal developments and changes in family law. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to clearly articulate your case in court. Ability to negotiate and mediate to reach favourable settlements. Compassion and Empathy: Understanding and empathy towards the emotional challenges involved in child custody disputes. Ability to provide emotional support to clients during a difficult time ...

Best Attorneys, Advocates, and lawyers to assist you in your Court Custody matter. When is the best time to get them involved in your case? When dealing with a family law matter, it is essential that you obtain the best legal advice possible. And in this regard, the best attorney, lawyer, or advocate for you. Not necessarily the most expensive or experienced. This is so as we are dealing with your children, that require the best care and protection. Child custody, child guardianship, visitation and care are all interrelated. However, they all have one underlying principle: the child's best interests. If parents cannot agree on what is in the child's best interest, Attorneys, Advocates, lawyers, and the Court may get involved. Your legal representative needs to be on the same page as you. What do child custody, child guardianship, visitation and care relate to? The terms child custody, child guardianship, visitation and care relate to a child's life in relation to a parent, caregiver or interested party. However, if you are a caregiver, your conduct would directly affect various aspects of the minor child's life. These include daily care, education, medical treatment, and overseas visits. This article attempts to address ...

Family Law Legal services - Child custody, divorce and child maintenance Our family law consultancy have a range of family law legal services for your convenience. Our specialized legal services are child maintenance, child custody and divorce. To top it off, we are situated in the heart of the buzzing CBD at Suit 702, 7th Floor, The Pinnacle, corner of Strand and burg Street, Cape Town, South Africa. Feel free to visit us at our offices in a safe, central setting and enjoy professional, confidential, legal consultations at its best. Our specialized legal services are: Child Maintenance Ante-nuptial Contact Change Matrimonial Property Regime Child Adoption Child Custody and Access Domestic Violence Protection Family Trust Registration Fast Unopposed Divorces Non-Compliance with maintenance orders Parenting Plans Postnuptial Contract Registration Pre-nikkah Agreement Should any of the above legal services interest you, feel free to call our offices on 021 424 3487 and have our receptionist make an online appointment for you. Child custody and legal advice… Like any other family legal matter, child custody involves a number of factors. When it comes to the legal aspect, the Children’s Act is used as a guideline on how to go about parental legal rights. We’ve found ...

Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Bloemfontein? A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases related to child custody and visitation rights. Family law matters can be very emotionally challenging for both parents. The same applies to the child concerned. Whether you live in Cape Town or in Bloemfontein, the law applicable would be the same throughout South Africa. Here are some qualities and characteristics that can define a great child custody lawyer, or the best one for your case: Experience and Expertise: Specialization in family law, particularly child custody cases. Proven track record of successfully handling similar cases. Knowledge of Family Law: In-depth understanding of family law. Awareness of recent legal developments and changes in family law. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to clearly articulate your case in court. Ability to negotiate and mediate to reach favourable settlements. Compassion and Empathy: Understanding and empathy towards the emotional challenges involved in child custody disputes. Ability to provide emotional support to clients during a difficult time ...

Child Maintenance and Child Custody Difficulties in light of the National Lockdown - (COVID-19) Host: Felicity An Guest (Child Maintenance Difficulties SA) Panel: -Muhammad Abduroaf (Advocate) – www.ourlawyer.co.za/advocate -Nicole Lawrence (Attorney) - Attorney & Director of Nicole Lawrence Attorneys, Cape Town [email protected] 071 456 9105 (Firm cell number) -Ayesha Karim (Attorney) - Director at Ayesha Karim Attorneys- Durban (KZN) [email protected] -Dr. Lesley Ann Foster – Woman’s Rights International – www.masimanyane.org.za ...

Dear Advocate Abduroaf. My child custody case is very complicated. How do I find the best child custody lawyer, attorney or advocate for my case in Pietermaritzburg? A great child custody lawyer (attorney or advocate) is a legal practitioner who specializes in family law and has expertise in handling cases related to child custody and visitation rights. Family law matters can be very emotionally challenging for both parents. The same applies to the child concerned. Whether you live in Cape Town or in Pietermaritzburg, the law applicable would be the same throughout South Africa. Here are some qualities and characteristics that can define a great child custody lawyer, or the best one for your case: Experience and Expertise: Specialization in family law, particularly child custody cases. Proven track record of successfully handling similar cases. Knowledge of Family Law: In-depth understanding of family law. Awareness of recent legal developments and changes in family law. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to clearly articulate your case in court. Ability to negotiate and mediate to reach favourable settlements. Compassion and Empathy: Understanding and empathy towards the emotional challenges involved in child custody disputes. Ability to provide emotional support to clients during a difficult time ...

Can a parent appeal a child custody order granted by the High Court or Children’s Court? In resolving disputes regarding child custody or guardianship (parental rights and responsibilities) matters, a court will usually be approached. The court is also the upper guardian of all minor children within its area of jurisdiction. A parent or interested party may approach the Children’s Court or the High Court when it comes to parental rights regarding a minor child. The High Court, however, has greater jurisdiction when it relates to issues associated with guardianship rights. As demonstrated below, the courts’ decisions may be reviewed by a higher court. However, before approaching the court, the parties should first try to resolve the matter through entering into a parenting plan. How are child custody court proceedings initiated? A parent or interested party would make an application to the court. In the High Court, this would be done with a Notice of Motion and Founding Affidavit, served on the other parent or interested party. An interested party would be someone who cares for the child or significantly forms part of the child’s life. For example, a step-parent, grandparent, or aunt. Once the founding papers are served, the ...

Child custody for fathers In most cases, the court will be more likely to award child custody rights to the mother first if the mother happens to be stable. Should the mother in any event, be a substance abuser, then the father will immediately be awarded child custody rights. The court will first and foremost, have the child’s best interest at heart. Part of this process is ensuring that the child grows up in a healthy environment. If it is best for the child to live with the father, then that is where the child will be residing at.  Fathers have the following child custody rights towards their children: Contact Care Guardianship and sometimes even Primary caregivers of the child As previously mentioned, if the mother happens to be unstable with no intention of rehabilitation, then custody rights are automatically awarded to the father. When it comes to child custody battles, there are no grey areas as the children are the center of it all. For more on child access and visitation rights, fell free to contact our law offices on 021 424 3487 for an online appointment. Alternatively, feel free to email us at [email protected] today for a professional legal ...

The plight and fight of unmarried fathers in obtaining primary care (custody) of their children in South Africa. Can the battle be won, and what are their rights? By Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf (LL.B LL.M) There is a common misconception that if a child was born out of wedlock, only the mother can be the primary caregiver of the child concerned. This may however generally be the case. However, it is presumed by some that if a mother cared for the child since his or her birth, the father would not be able to be the child’s primary caregiver. In other words, the child would no longer live with the mother, but with the father. We do not blame our clients for thinking so. That is the stereotype. However, as the world changes, so does the law. We are often approached by fathers who have a child that was born out of wedlock. He and the mother most probably lived together when the child was born. But things did not work out between them. The mother moved out and lived with her parents or on her own. The father would then regularly have contact with the child. The type of contact ...

Questions parents ask in child custody disputes. What are some of the difficulties parents face when dealing with child custody issues and problems? When parents have issues and difficulties regarding their parental responsibilities and rights, they often go online for answers. These issues can relate to contact rights or guardianship issues. One parent may want to have more contact, and the other parent refuses such a request. Or a parent wants to relocate with a minor child, and the other parent refuses guardianship consent. Whatever the issues are, they need to be resolved in the child’s best interests. Read on for some interesting questions parents ask online. Does the abuse of alcohol affect the outcome of a child custody case? Abusing alcohol is very dangerous. Not only for you but for your relationship and parenting as well. If a parent abuses alcohol in the presence of a child, then the child is in danger, or at the very least, in a potential neglectful situation. If both parents abuse alcohol, then the case is much more serious and social welfare needs to get involved. On the issue of a child custody case, the abuse of alcohol is material and would play ...

How to win your child custody (care) and access (contact) court case - Tips and Tricks Purchase a Consultation with us from our Online Shop, by clicking here. Legal matters concerning children are never simple. There is no manual that one can pull out for answers. This is so because all matters concerning a child are different. This is where the wisdom of experts becomes of use. What follows are some of the tips and tricks provided by Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf, a family law expert with more than a decade of experience on family law, divorce, child custody and child maintenance matters. Read on to find out some tips and tricks of the trade. Valuable advice is given on what to do through the child custody court process. Visit here for tips and tricks on how to win your child maintenance case. All families are different, with their own dynamics, challenges and issues. A 10-year-old child in one case with living conditions, parents, siblings and mental development would be different than that of another child. All that one has to work with is the concept of a child’s best interests. That is the challenge. How do you determine what is ...

Frequently asked Child Custody and Guardianship Questions, answered by Adv. Muhammad Abduroaf, Advocate of the High Court of South Africa Parents who are separated or having difficulties in their marriage or relationship often have questions regarding issues regarding child custody, care, visitation, and guardianship. Below are a few questions that Adv. Muhammad Abduroaf attempt to answer. What is the most common child custody agreement? The most common child custody agreement is for one parent to have primary care and for the other to have reasonable contact. That basically means the child would be cared for by one parent during the school week, and the other parent would have visitation rights every other weekend. Sometimes visitation would be during the week as well. Regarding school holidays, each parent would care for the child equally if possible. That would mean that the school holidays would be split in half. There are many variations to the above. However, the idea is that one parent would care for the child's day-to-day needs and would be the first point of call for the child. For example, should the child fall ill at school, then the primary caregiver would be first contacted. That parent would also ...

International Family Law matters, applicable to South Africa Divorces are not only limited to people living in the same country. Often, you will find that one spouse lives in South Africa and the other in a different country. They want to get divorced but do not know how to go about it. The question now is, which country and which court should divorce them? We regularly receive these types of queries from people living in the Middle East and the United Kingdom. The same problem arises in the case of parents living in different countries, but there are complications regarding contact and access to their minor children. Let's say, one parent, lives in Cape Town and the other in Taiwan. How does the parent living in Taiwan enforce his contact rights to his child in South Africa? Does he or she approach the court in Taiwan? Or should he or she approach the Court in South Africa? And Lastly, there is an issue regarding child maintenance. What happens in the case where one parent lives in Cape Town and the other in New York? How does child maintenance work? Can the parent living in Cape Town with the children obtain ...

Divorce Lawyers - Make sure your Attorney or Advocate is on your side Divorce Lawyer - Divorces need not be difficult. With a large number of marriages ending up in divorce; surely the process should be simple. When a marriage has broken down irretrievably, life needs to go on. It is senseless to make up for your unsuccessful marriage, by trying to have a successful divorce. If there are children involved, there is even more reason not to fight. And if there are no children involved, the only outstanding issues would be property. But if you were married out of Community of Property, there is no need to fight at all. This is where a good divorce lawyer comes in. Family Law Questions and Answers Should you not find what you are looking for, feel free to post your questions on our blog, by clicking on the following links: Divorces – Questions and Answers Child Custody – Questions and Answers Child Maintenance – Question and Answers Domestic Violence – Questions and Answers You are welcome to call us on 021 424 3487 / For other legal and business services, feel free to visit: Business SA or Private Legal. This article does ...

Paternity disputes and Scientific DNA Testing in Child Legal Matters Paternity disputes are not uncommon in our courts of law. What sparks them varies, however, all disputes are messy. For one, the mere allegation that he is not the father of the child may directly or indirectly affect the dignity of the mother, and that of the child. In other words, it is suggested that she had more than one sexual partner at the time, and the child was born from such a relationship. Nonetheless, the issue can speedily be resolved through scientific DNA testing. Paternity - Legal Settings There are two common legal settings where a parent (or alleged parent) would dispute paternity. The one would be in a child maintenance dispute, where the father alleges that he is not the biological father of the child, and therefore cannot be ordered to pay child maintenance. The other situation would be in a child custody or visitation dispute. Here the mother would allege that the man is not the father, or he denies paternity. Paternity Dispute Scenarios There are other scenarios where paternity can become an issue. One would be in the case of inheritance. A parent would allege that ...

Custody cases South Africa Our law offices are situated in the heart of the CBD in a professional, safe settings. We are family legal experts when it comes to handling child custody, divorce and child maintenance legal matters. Throughout our years of experience, we have found that the legal rules for child custody tends to favor the mother, unless the mother happened to be unstable. As time passed, the rules have changed and in turn, accommodates for the rights of fathers as well. With different circumstances constantly arising in custody battles; the law have had to adapt under these changing priorities as well. Today, fathers are more aware of their legal rights and make it their duty to educate themselves about their rights. Our Lawyer Pty Ltd is a professional legal consultancy that offers legal services and to cater for the layman, we have managed to compile a range of child custody legal articles with expert legal advice. Simply click on the links below: Child custody visitation access- questions and answers Child custody frequently asked questions Father refused contact to his child. What are his rights? Father's parental responsibilities and rights to his child. How do I get full custody ...

I require a law firm to assist me in my Child Custody matter. What are your contact details? If you require an Advocate Law Firm to assist you in your legal matter, feel free to contact us using the following details: Tel.: 021 111 0090 Email.: [email protected] We service clients throughout South Africa. These include: Cape Town Rustenburg Kimberley East London Nelspruit Polokwane Pietermaritzburg Bloemfontein Port Elizabeth Pretoria Durban Johannesburg ...