NMA Attorneys & Conveyancers

19/10/2026

The Domestic Violence Act recognises financial abuse as a form of domestic violence, and it is more common than most people realise.

Financial abuse includes: controlling access to money, preventing a partner from working, running up debt in their name, withholding money for basic necessities, and using finances as a tool of power and control. One in eight South African women over 18 has experienced it.

So what does the law say?

Financial abuse can be included in a protection order application, it is grounds for court intervention in the same way physical violence is.

In divorce proceedings, a history of financial abuse is legally relevant. Courts consider the circumstances of the marriage when making orders about asset division, maintenance and financial support. A spouse who has been financially controlled and isolated may have limited resources, limited employment history, and limited financial independence, and the law takes this into account.

Spousal maintenance:
You have the right to apply for interim maintenance during divorce proceedings, so that financial dependence on an abuser does not trap you in the process of leaving.

Marital regime matters:
Whether you are married in or out of community of property significantly affects your financial rights on exit. If you are unsure of your marital regime, or were never given a clear picture of your finances during the marriage, legal advice is the place to start. Get in touch with us today: 031 303 2476

GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428

16/10/2026

One of the most powerful things keeping people in abusive situations is the fear of having nowhere to go. It is a real and practical fear, and the law has provisions to address it.

If you own the home together:
Both spouses have rights to the matrimonial home. A protection order can prohibit your abuser from entering the property - meaning they may be the one who has to leave, not you. You cannot be removed from the family home without a court order, regardless of whose name is on the title deed.

If you rent:
The PIE Act (Prevention of Illegal Evictions Act) protects you from being evicted without a proper court process. Your landlord cannot remove you from the property without following legal procedure, even if your lease situation is complicated by what you're leaving behind.

If you are married in community of property:
Half of the joint estate is legally yours. Your abuser cannot simply exclude you from property, finances or assets that form part of the shared estate.

Emergency shelter:
The Domestic Violence Act places an obligation on police to assist survivors in finding suitable emergency shelter when immediate safety is at risk.

Leaving is not the end of your rights to a home. In many cases, the law says they are the one who must go.

GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428

15/10/2026

Your child's best interests should always come first. For Thoughtful Thursday, Kemaya reminds us that child maintenance is a shared responsibility. A parent cannot legally refuse to pay maintenance simply because the other parent denies them contact, and vice versa.

Reach out for confidential legal assistance at [email protected] or call 031 303 2476.

15/10/2026

The sweetest thank you! 🍰

A massive thank you to Craig and Kim Woods at Tyson Properties Morningside for dropping off this wonderful surprise for the NMA Attorneys team. We are absolutely touched by your gratitude and love working with you. Thank you for making our day!

14/10/2026

Navigating a divorce can be overwhelming, but understanding your legal rights early is key. In this Wise-Up Wednesday, Raakhee highlights that your marriage contract dictates asset division and that early decisions have long term consequences.

Protect your interests and seek professional advice to make informed choices. Contact us at 031 303 2476 or [email protected].

13/10/2026

If your financial circumstances have improved, it may be time to find out what options are available to you.

At NMA Attorneys & Conveyancers, we’ll assess your circumstances and guide you through the legal process applicable to your situation — clearly, responsibly and step by step.

Speak to our team to find out where you stand.

📞 031 303 2476
📧 [email protected]

12/10/2026

Are you currently under debt review and wondering about your options?

The Legal Minute with Phiwe reminds you that if your financial situation has improved, you might be able to legally exit the process. Before taking any steps, it is crucial to get proper legal advice to understand if you qualify and to follow the correct legal procedures.

Call our team on 031 303 2476 or email [email protected] for assistance.

09/10/2026

South Africa shines on the global stage once again! 🇿🇦

NMA Attorneys extends our warmest congratulations to SA human rights lawyer Navi Pillay on winning the Nobel Peace Prize for her outstanding work in advancing peace and international law. A profoundly proud moment for our country and the legal profession! ⚖️

Read the full story:

Prize given to South African human rights lawyer for her efforts to promote peace and international law

09/10/2026

Signing an offer to purchase feels enormous, because legally, it is. Once both parties have signed, it becomes a binding contract. But there are situations where you may still have an exit.

The cooling-off period:
If you are purchasing residential property for R250,000 or more OR the offer was not initiated by you (meaning the seller or agent came to you), the Alienation of Land Act gives you a 5 business day cooling-off period to withdraw without penalty.

Suspensive conditions:
If your offer was made subject to bond approval and the bank declines, the contract falls away. Same for other suspensive conditions you may have negotiated - a building inspection, the sale of an existing property, or similar.

If none of the above apply:
Withdrawing from a signed offer to purchase without legal grounds can expose you to a damages claim from the seller, typically the agent's commission and any proven losses. This is why the wording of your offer matters significantly before you sign.

If you're having second thoughts before signing, or have already signed and are uncertain, speak to us before doing anything.

www.nmalaw.co.za | 031 303 2476

08/10/2026

For this week's Thoughtful Thursday with Kemaya, we are highlighting a crucial truth: domestic violence is not always physical.

It encompasses emotional and psychological abuse, verbal threats, harassment, intimidation, and controlling behaviour. You do not have to live in fear. Your silence does not protect you, but knowing your rights can.

📱📧 Reach out for confidential legal advice at 031 303 2476 or [email protected].