Legal Articles

A claim for unpaid rent, for example, is unlikely to be heard in the same forum as a constitutional challenge or a multi-million rand commercial dispute. The choice between the High Court and the Magistrate’s Court shapes the speed of the proceedings, the costs involved, and even whether the court has the power to grant the relief you seek.

Read the rest of entry »

Civil litigation refers to the legal process used to resolve disputes between private parties through the courts. A civil case definition is straightforward: it is any lawsuit where one party (the plaintiff) brings a claim against another party (the defendant) to enforce a right, recover damages, or obtain specific relief. 

Read the rest of entry »

In South Africa, civil litigation provides a structured process for resolving disputes between individuals, companies, or organisations. Unlike criminal law, which deals with offences against the state, civil law is about settling disagreements and securing remedies for harm done. But not every dispute belongs in court.

Read the rest of entry »

When disputes arise, the first instinct is often to “take it to court.” Litigation has long been the traditional path for resolving conflicts, but it is not always the most practical or beneficial one. Court processes can stretch on for years, cost enormous sums in legal fees, and play out in a very public forum.

Read the rest of entry »

Court-annexed mediation gives parties the opportunity to resolve disputes with the guidance of a trained mediator, while still operating under the oversight of the court system. It was designed not only to reduce the burden on the courts, but also to make dispute resolution more accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of ordinary people.

Read the rest of entry »

Overhanging branches, invasive roots, blocked gutters, leaves in swimming pools, and even damage to driveways or walls are common complaints. But what does the law say, and what remedies are available to property owners?

Read the rest of entry »

South African law generally allows a property owner to cut back branches that hang over their boundary from a neighbour’s tree. Some case authorities differ on whether prior notice to the neighbour is legally required, but the recommended approach is to give reasonable notice.

Read the rest of entry »

Unlike court proceedings, which can be lengthy, costly, and adversarial, mediation is designed to be faster, less formal, and more collaborative. It allows both parties to retain control over the outcome, instead of leaving the decision entirely in the hands of a judge. 

Read the rest of entry »

With completion scheduled for November 2026, the development—170 Grosvenor—promises more than just stylish homes. It offers a secure investment in one of South Africa’s most resilient property markets, supported by the legal expertise of VDM Attorneys to ensure every stage of the project meets the highest regulatory and contractual standards.

Read the rest of entry »

Johlene Wasserman, Director of Community Schemes and Compliance at VDM Law, confirmed that the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) has issued a Practice Directive that represents a substantial shift in how community schemes are regulated and enforced. The directive, signed and published on 18 July 2025, sets out uniform standards for addressing a range of governance issues, including the treatment of pets, the imposition of fines, and the regulation of domestic workers.

Read the rest of entry »