Elso Viljoen & Associates

28/08/2026

14/08/2026

Which Business Entity Should You Choose — Pty Ltd, CC, or Sole Proprietor?

Choosing the right business structure in South Africa is crucial for liability, taxation, and growth.

• Sole Proprietor – Simple setup, full control, but you are personally liable for debts.
• Private Company (Pty Ltd) – Limited liability, separate legal entity, better for raising capital and protecting personal assets.
• Close Corporation (CC) – Previously popular for small businesses, but no longer available for new registrations (existing CCs continue).

The right choice depends on your risk tolerance, growth plans, and legal obligations.

Consult with Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc today to ensure your business is structured for success and compliance.

09/08/2026

Today we celebrate the achievements, strength, and resilience of women across South Africa and around the world. Women’s Day reminds us of the power of equality, leadership, and opportunity for all.

At Elso Viljoen and Associates Incorporated, we honour the incredible contributions of women in every sphere, from our team to our communities, and remain committed to supporting their growth and success.

07/08/2026

What Is Covered Under Domestic Violence Law in South Africa?

Domestic violence is more than just physical abuse.

Under South African law, it includes:
🔹 Physical abuse – hitting, slapping, or any form of assault
🔹 Emotional or verbal abuse – threats, intimidation, humiliation, or controlling behaviour
🔹 Economic abuse – withholding money, preventing someone from working, or controlling finances
🔹 Harassment and stalking – following, spying, or repeated unwanted contact

The Domestic Violence Act allows victims to apply for a protection order, ensuring legal protection and safety. Breaching a protection order is a criminal offence.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc to seek legal guidance immediately. Protection and support is available.

31/07/2026

What Is an Unfair Dismissal?

In South Africa, an unfair dismissal occurs when an employee is terminated without a fair reason or without following a fair procedure, as required by the Labour Relations Act.

Common examples include:
⚠️ Dismissal without a valid reason (e.g: performance, misconduct, operational requirements)
⚠️ No prior warning or opportunity to respond
⚠️ Discrimination or retaliation

Employees who believe they were unfairly dismissed can challenge the dismissal at the CCMA or Labour Court.

Contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc to seek professional legal advice early to help protect your rights and improve your chances of a successful claim.

24/07/2026

Can a Criminal Case Be Withdrawn and What Does That Mean?

In South Africa, a criminal case can sometimes be withdrawn by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) or the Court. This means the prosecutor decides not to proceed with the case, either before or during proceedings.

Reasons a case may be withdrawn include:
⚖️ Insufficient evidence to secure a conviction
⚖️ Witnesses being unavailable or unreliable
⚖️ It’s not in the public interest to continue

Withdrawal does not mean the accused is declared innocent, it simply means the case will not proceed at that time. In some situations, the case can be reopened later if new evidence emerges.

Contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc today if your case is withdrawn or if you are affected by a withdrawal, to understand your rights and next steps.

17/07/2026

What Is a Parenting Plan and Do I Need One?

A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents outlining how they will share responsibilities and make decisions for their children.

It covers matters such as:
🔹 Living arrangements and daily care
🔹 Schooling, extracurricular activities, and medical decisions
🔹 Holidays, travel, and communication between parents

While not legally required, a parenting plan can:
✔️ Reduce conflict between parents
✔️ Provide clarity and stability for the child
✔️ Serve as evidence in court if disputes arise

Contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc to help you create a parenting plan that works for your child and your family’s circumstances.

10/07/2026

How Do I Enforce a Civil Court Judgment in South Africa?

Winning a civil case is only the first step, enforcing the judgment is what ensures you actually receive what you’re owed.

Common enforcement methods include:-

🔹 Warrant of Ex*****on – to attach and sell the debtor’s movable property
🔹 Garnishee Order – to claim money directly from the debtor’s bank account or employer
🔹 Emolument Attachment Order – to deduct payments from the debtor’s salary.

Understanding the correct enforcement procedure is essential to protect your
rights and avoid delays.

Contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc today to seek professional legal guidance to enforce your judgment effectively and efficiently.

03/07/2026

How Do I Protect My Business Intellectual Property?

Your business ideas, inventions, and branding are valuable assets and protecting them is essential.

In South Africa, you can safeguard your intellectual property (IP) through:

🔹 Trademarks – protect your brand names, logos, and slogans
🔹 Patents – protect new inventions and innovations
🔹 Copyrights – protect original works like software, designs, and content

Proper IP protection prevents competitors from copying or misusing your work and strengthens your legal position if disputes arise.

Consult with Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc today to register and enforce your rights effectively. Protecting your IP today safeguards your business tomorrow.

26/06/2026

Can My Landlord Evict Me Without a Court Order?

In South Africa, your landlord cannot legally evict you without a court order. Any attempt to forcibly remove you, change locks, or cut off utilities is illegal.

The Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (PIE Act) ensures tenants have the right to a fair eviction process.

Eviction must follow legal procedures, and you are entitled to notice and the opportunity to be heard in court.

If your landlord is threatening eviction, contact Elso Viljoen and Associates Inc to seek legal advice immediately to protect your rights.