Hiine JM Attorneys

10/03/2026

Public Service Announcement:

If you ever find yourself Googling “best bail attorney near me” at 2am, just know… somewhere along the line the night went awefuly wrong.

One minute you’re saying “just one more round” the next minute you’re learning that police station benches were not designed with human comfort in mind.

Moral of the story:

• Always have the number of a good bail attorney saved. No Scratch that, Always have MY NUMBER saved just in case your life decides to become a courtroom drama.

You know you know you gonna get caught. Just prepare😂😂😂

15/07/2025

Suffered injuries in a road accident?

Navigating a Road Accident Fund (RAF) claim in South Africa can be a complex and overwhelming process. While it's possible to claim directly, using an attorney significantly increases your chances of a successful outcome and fair compensation.
Why is an attorney crucial for your RAF claim?
* Legal Expertise: RAF claims involve intricate legal procedures, strict deadlines, and specific documentation. An experienced attorney understands these complexities inside out, ensuring your claim is valid and submitted correctly.

* Maximising Compensation: Many claimants, if unassisted, might not be aware of all the types of damages they can claim for, leading to under-settlement. Attorneys ensure you claim for everything you're entitled to, including medical expenses (past and future), loss of income, pain and suffering, and rehabilitation costs.
* Evidence Gathering: Building a strong case requires meticulous evidence collection – from police reports and medical records to witness statements and accident scene photos. An attorney will expertly gather and organise all necessary documentation, ensuring it complies with legal standards.

* Dealing with the RAF: The RAF process can be time-consuming and bureaucratic. Your attorney handles all communication, negotiations, and administrative procedures, taking the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery.
* Negotiation and Litigation: If the RAF offers an unfair settlement, your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome. If necessary, they are prepared to take your case to court, representing your interests and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

* "No Win, No Fee" Basis: Many specialist RAF attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay upfront legal costs. They only get paid if your claim is successful, aligning their motivation with yours.

How can HJM Attorneys help you claim successfully?
At HJM Attorneys, we understand the devastating impact a road accident can have on your life. Our dedicated team of experienced RAF specialists is committed to providing comprehensive legal support, guiding you through every step of the claims process.
We will:
* Conduct a free initial consultation to assess the merits of your case.
* Thoroughly investigate your accident and meticulously gather all supporting evidence.
* Accurately assess your damages to ensure you claim for all your losses.
* Lodge your claim with the RAF correctly and efficiently.
* Handle all communication and negotiations with the RAF.
* Represent you vigorously in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
* Work tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Don't navigate the complexities of a RAF claim alone. Let HJM Attorneys be your trusted partner in seeking justice and fair compensation.
Contact HJM Attorneys today for a free consultation and let us help you claim successfully!

14/06/2025

Debates have arisen regarding the authority of police/traffic officers at roadblocks and road checks. Understand your rights and obligations in such situations:

Introduction This article constitutes an outline in respect of roadblocks and so-called “roadside checks”, as they are catered for in law and implemented in practical application. Although it contains quite a bit of information, it is not a comprehensive guide and does not encompass ever...

28/05/2024

At your service.

04/04/2024

The Process of Administering a Deceased Estate in South Africa.

Losing a loved one is a difficult time, and dealing with their estate can add to the stress. But understanding the process can make things a bit easier. Here's a simplified overview of administering a deceased estate in South Africa:

* Reporting the Estate: The first step is to report the estate to the Master of the High Court within 14 days of death. This can be done at the Master's office in the province where the deceased ordinarily lived.

* Finding the Will: If the deceased left a will, the executor named in the will can proceed with the administration. If there's no will, the process becomes more complex and might involve appointing an executor through the court.

* Gathering Assets and Liabilities: The executor must identify all the deceased's assets and liabilities. This includes property, vehicles, bank accounts, debts, and loans.

* Paying Estate Duty: Estate duty (similar to inheritance tax) may be payable to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on some estates. The executor must determine if this applies and handle the payment.

* Liquidating Assets: Assets that aren't to be distributed directly to beneficiaries may need to be sold to pay off debts and estate costs.

* Distributing the Estate: Once all debts and taxes are paid, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will (if there is one) or according to the law of intestacy (if there's no will).

Getting Help with Estate Administration
Administering a deceased estate can be complex, especially if there's no will or there are complex assets involved. Consider consulting with an attorney.

Contact HJM Attorneys on +27 (10) 085-9923

09/12/2023

ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES (overview)

The administration of estates refers to the legal and financial processes involved in handling the assets and liabilities of a deceased person in South Africa.

Applicable Legislation:
The administration of estates in South Africa is governed by the provisions of the Administration of Estates Act, 1965 (Act No. 66 of 1965). This legislation sets out the rules and procedures that must be followed in the administration of a deceased person's estate.

Key Players:
1. Executor: An executor is a person appointed in the deceased's will or nominated by the Master of the High Court to administer the estate. The executor is responsible for gathering and valuing the deceased's assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries.

2. Master of the High Court: The Master is a judicial officer who oversees the administration of deceased estates. The Master's Office, located in each province, is responsible for granting letters of executorship and supervising the actions of executors.

3. Beneficiaries: These are individuals or organizations named in the deceased's will or determined by the laws of intestate succession who are entitled to inherit from the estate.

Administration Process:
1. Reporting the Estate: The executor must report the deceased's estate to the Master of the High Court. The reporting process involves submitting various documents, including the death certificate, will (if applicable), and an inventory of assets and liabilities.

2. Appointment of Executor: The Master will grant letters of executorship to the nominated executor or a suitable alternative. The executor's appointment empowers them to administer the estate's affairs.

3. Asset and Liability Evaluation: The executor is responsible for identifying, gathering, and valuing all the deceased's assets and liabilities. This process includes securing the assets, obtaining valuations, and settling any outstanding debts.

4. Estate Distributions: Once all debts, expenses, and taxes have been paid, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as stipulated in the will or according to intestate succession laws.

5. Finalization: The executor must submit a final account to the Master, detailing all the assets, liabilities, and transactions related to the estate. After the Master's approval, the estate can be finalized, and the executor is discharged from their duties.

Important Considerations:
1. Estate Taxes: South Africa imposes estate duty and capital gains tax on certain estates. Executors must ensure compliance and settle any outstanding tax obligations.

2. Dispute Resolution: Disputes among beneficiaries or challenges to the validity of a will can arise during the administration process. Resolving such matters may require legal intervention.

3. Timeframe: The administration of an estate can take several months or even years, depending on the complexity of the assets, liabilities, and any potential disputes.

Conclusion:
Administering an estate in South Africa involves a thorough understanding of the applicable laws, procedures, and responsibilities. Executors play a vital role in ensuring the fair and efficient distribution of assets to beneficiaries. Seeking professional advice from an attorney or estate administrator experienced in South African estate administration can help simplify the process and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

We at HJM ATTORNEYS can assist you with your estate matters, contact us now.

12/04/2023

23/01/2023

Get your legal problems tackled by a competent and professional legal practitioners.

Contact us now.

13/09/2022

The LSSA National Wills Week will take place from 12-16 September 2022.

WHY MUST YOU HAVE A WILL.
By making a will you ensure that your assets are disposed of in accordance with your wishes after your death. This privilege is called “freedom of testation”.

WHY SHOULD AN ATTORNEY DRAFT YOUR WILL?
Attorneys are professionals qualified in law. An attorney can advise you on any problem which may arise with regard to your will. An attorney has the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure that your will is valid and complies with your wishes.
Often a will is not valid because the person who drafts it does not have the necessary legal knowledge to ensure that the requirements of the law are met.

WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR ESTATE IF YOU DIE WITHOUT A VALID WILL?
If you die without leaving a valid will, your assets will be distributed according to the provisions of the Intestate Succession Act. The provisions of this Act are generally fair and ensure that your possessions are transferred to your spouse and children, and where applicable, to siblings, parents, and if required, then to the extended family in terms of degrees of relationships and those that were dependent on you for financial support.

BUT, the following problems may arise if you die without leaving a will:

Your assets may not be left to the person of your choice.
It can take a long time to have an executor appointed. The executor who is appointed may be somebody you may not have chosen yourself.
There can be extra and unnecessary costs.
There can be unhappiness and conflict among members of your family because there are no clear instructions on how to distribute your assets.

https://www.lssa.org.za/our-initiatives/advocacy/national-wills-week/

24/08/2022

Do you feel that you have been unfairly dismissed?
Do your know your rights as an employee as contained in the Basic Conditions of Employment Act?

Contact us now.

23/07/2022

Have you or your loved ones been involved in motor vehicle accident?
Would you like to lodge a claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF).
Contact us for more information on how to lodge a claim.