Divorce is an increasingly common life experience for people around the world. In South Africa, between 2021 and 2022, the rate of divorce increased by almost 11%. If you’re facing a divorce, there’s no reason to feel ashamed. What you do need to do is empower yourself with the right legal help to navigate this emotional and financial process.
Understanding divorce in South Africa
South African divorce law operates on a ‘no fault’ system. Neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing to get a divorce. The primary condition for granting a divorce in South Africa is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. When your relationship has deteriorated to such an extent that there is no reasonable prospect of restoring it, that’s when your divorce can be granted by the court.
The court plays a key role in divorce proceedings, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that the interests of both spouses, especially any children involved, are protected. The court’s primary concern in cases involving children is their wellbeing, which takes precedence over other considerations.
What happens in a divorce?
The divorce process in South Africa can be relatively straightforward. The financial and emotional costs, however, can be significant. The complexity of your divorce will depend on your personal situation. In South Africa, there are three types of divorces:
Contested divorce
A contested divorce occurs when both spouses are unable to reach an agreement on the terms and conditions of the divorce. This type of divorce can take years to conclude and is financially and emotionally draining.
Mediation divorce
In a mediated divorce, couples who are unable to agree on a settlement employ a mediator or an attorney to help them negotiate and reach an agreement. A mediation divorce helps you to pursue an uncontested divorce.
Uncontested divorce
An uncontested divorce is the fastest and most cost-effective type of divorce. In this scenario, all parties agree to the terms of the divorce, making the process smoother and less contentious.
Financial and emotional effects of divorce
Divorce can have significant financial consequences, including the division of assets and debts. The divorce process can be complex, especially if there are substantial assets or disagreements about the distribution of your assets.
Emotionally, divorce can take a heavy toll on everyone. The stress and anxiety associated with ending a marriage can be overwhelming. That’s why you need professional help, and legal help too.
Legal protection for divorce
Given the complexities of divorce, legal protection is essential. Bidvest Insurance’s Legal Insurance gives you comprehensive coverage for divorce-related matters. This includes:
- Divorce cover.
- Unlimited mediation and advisory services.
- Access to professional legal advice.
Securing good legal representation is particularly important in contested divorces, where disputes over assets, child custody, or other matters can become contentious.
The importance of divorce cover
Divorce can be financially draining, but Legal Insurance from Bidvest Insurance helps take the financial pinch out of the divorce process. With unlimited mediation and advisory services, you get expert guidance throughout your divorce proceedings. Should matters escalate beyond mediation, Bidvest Insurance gives you effective legal cover options for your divorce, ensuring you have the support you need during this challenging time.
While divorce rates in South Africa remain significant, understanding the process and having proper legal protection can make a substantial difference. Whether you’re facing a contested, mediated, or uncontested divorce, Bidvest Insurance’s Legal Insurance gives you the support and coverage you need to get through this challenging life event.
Get Legal Cover from Bidvest Insurance today and ensure you’re prepared for whatever life may bring.
