Legal Pathways SA

05/08/2026

Is an unregistered customary marriage still valid?

Yes.

Not registering a customary marriage does not automatically make it invalid.

Registration does not create the marriage. It mainly serves as official proof that the marriage exists.

Although an unregistered customary marriage is still legally recognised if it meets the legal requirements, registration becomes very important when issues such as inheritance, maintenance, or other legal claims arise.

A surviving spouse can still claim their rights even if the marriage was never registered. However, they may have to work much harder to prove that the marriage existed. Sadly, family members sometimes dispute the existence of the marriage, which can lead to unnecessary delays and legal disputes.

Tip: If you are in a customary marriage, it is a good idea to register it. It can save your family time, stress, and legal costs in the future.

05/08/2026

Does a lobola agreement alone mean you are legally married under customary law?

No.

A lobola agreement alone does not mean that a valid customary marriage has taken place.

For a customary marriage to be valid in South Africa, the following requirements must be met:

Both parties must be 18 years or older.
Both parties must freely and willingly consent to the marriage.
The marriage must be negotiated and entered into or celebrated in accordance with customary law.

Simply agreeing on or paying lobola does not automatically mean a customary marriage exists.

05/08/2026

What is Customary marriage?

15/07/2026

How to open a criminal case in South Africa?

15/07/2026

To the folks aspiring to become Prosecutors the Aspirant Prosecutor Training Program 2027/2028 by the NPA is now open for applications closing date 27th July 2026.

Minimum Requirements:
▪︎ LLB Degree
▪︎ Final year LLB students may apply, provided that the LLB degree will be completed before the start date of the programme.
▪︎ Be a South African Citizen

Documents Required:
▪︎ Updated CV
▪︎ Z83 application form

It is advised that you start with preparations right after you submit your application. The study guide and related intake documents and information can be found on their official website.

Goodluck 🙂.

04/07/2026

Remember to always plan ahead,make your goals clear, note them down and revisit them time and again. This will help motivate you to stay focused, push harder and never give up even when the going gets tough.

30/06/2026

30/06/2026

Attorney vs. Advocate

Many people think that once you graduate with a law degree, you automatically become an attorney or advocate. Not quite. 🙂

A law degree makes you a law graduate, but you must still complete the required practical training and be admitted to practise before you can represent clients in court as an attorney or advocate.

A law degree is just the beginning.

21/06/2026

JOBS YOU CAN PURSUE WITH AN LLB👩‍⚖️

Well, there is more to an LLB than traditional legal careers such as becoming an attorney or advocate. The degree can open doors to various career opportunities across different industries.

Some of these careers can be pursued with an LLB degree alone, while others may require additional studies, training, practical experience, or professional admission.

21/06/2026