Vermeulen Attorneys

03/09/2026

South Africa’s trust law landscape may be changing.

The Regulation of Trusts Bill, 2026 proposes significant changes to how trusts are regulated and administered.

What could this mean for trustees, beneficiaries and trust administration?

Read our latest blog:

https://buff.ly/eMZhBVA

01/09/2026

Substance abuse in the workplace can raise difficult questions for both employers and employees.

The 2025 Code provides important guidance on when substance abuse should be treated as misconduct, incapacity, or a health-related concern.

Read our latest blog:

https://vermeulenlaw.co.za/substance-abuse-in-the-workplace-2025-code/

28/08/2026

Honest financial disclosure is essential in every divorce.

When one spouse refuses to disclose assets, income or financial records, the court may compel disclosure to ensure a fair outcome.

Read our latest blog to understand your legal options:

https://vermeulenlaw.co.za/compel-financial-disclosure-in-divorce-south-africa/

27/08/2026

A trustee cannot simply act because they have been appointed.

Without valid Letters of Authority issued by the Master of the High Court, a trustee generally has no legal authority to administer or bind a trust.

Read our latest blog to understand why this requirement matters:

https://vermeulenlaw.co.za/trustee-acting-without-letters-of-authority/

25/08/2026

A contact order is legally binding.

If a parent or caregiver refuses to comply with a court-ordered contact arrangement, there are legal remedies available to enforce the order and protect the child’s best interests.

Read our latest blog:

https://buff.ly/dTyVgjg

24/08/2026

A will does not always fail because it is technically defective.

Section 2(3) of the Wills Act allows a court, in certain circumstances, to condone a document that does not comply with all the formal requirements of a valid will.

Read our latest blog to understand when condonation may be possible:

https://buff.ly/HiR7CXH

24/08/2026

We are incredibly proud of our Director, Cathleen Breedt, who was recently featured in The Ballito Magazine and highlighted on their page.

Congratulations, Cathleen, on this well-deserved recognition. Your dedication, professionalism and expertise continue to make us proud.

Onwards and upwards! 🎉👏

Cathleen Breedt, from Vermeulen Attorneys, found her way to law from watching "Judging Amy" as a child.

"At that stage, I felt my calling was to join the judiciary in the children’s courts; today I specialise mostly in deceased estate and trust litigation. These areas also enable me to give a voice to clients who are oppressed by others in power, which is massively fulfilling."

https://www.theballitomagazine.co.za/she-means-business-cathleen-breedt

21/08/2026

What a fantastic day on the course! ⛳🐾

We were proud to join The Society for Animals in Distress and Dainfern Golf Estate for their golf day this week.

Golfers enjoyed the snacks we provided at our stop and participated in our “Order in the Four-ball” challenge, in which they answered fun legal questions to earn a sticker. It was great to see so many smiles, friendly competition, and enthusiasm throughout the day.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, and to the organisers for hosting such a wonderful event in support of an incredible cause.

20/08/2026

Section 37C of the Pension Funds Act can recognise customary spouses—but entitlement depends on the facts and the law. Read our latest blog to understand how death benefit claims involving customary spouses are assessed in South Africa: https://vermeulenlaw.co.za/section-37c-death-benefit-customary-spouse/

18/08/2026

Trusts can play an important role in divorce proceedings—but only where there is evidence of misuse. Read more: https://vermeulenlaw.co.za/proving-trust-abuse-in-a-divorce-south-africa/

Our latest blog explains how trust abuse is proved, when courts may look beyond the trust structure, and the legal principles that apply in South Africa.