How do I get a divorce in South Africa?

To get a divorce, one party must apply to the High Court or the Magistrate’s Court. South Africa follows a “no-fault” divorce system, meaning you don’t have to prove wrongdoing to end a marriage. A divorce summons is issued, outlining the grounds (typically irretrievable breakdown of the marriage). Matters such as division of assets, child maintenance, and parental rights are considered. If the divorce is uncontested, it can be finalised within a few months; contested divorces may take much longer.