Customary marriage in South Africa can only be dissolved through a formal divorce process on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown of the relationship. This means that a court must grant a divorce order before the marriage is legally terminated. However, proving the existence of a customary marriage is a crucial step before initiating the divorce process.
What to Do If You Have Lost Your Lobola Letter
Losing your lobola letter does not mean that your customary marriage cannot be recognized. Here are steps you can take to provide proof of your marriage:
- Alternative Evidence: If the lobola letter is missing, other forms of evidence can be used to prove that a customary marriage exists. These include:
- Photographs of the marriage celebrations.
- Affidavits from family members, relatives, or elders who were present at the wedding.
- Testimonies from community members who witnessed the union.
- Obtain a Marriage Certificate: If your customary marriage was registered with the Department of Home Affairs, you can approach them to obtain a marriage certificate. This document serves as legal proof of the marriage and can be used in court proceedings.
- Seek Legal Assistance: Proving a customary marriage without a lobola letter can be complex. Consulting with experienced family law attorneys like K Tshitahe Attorneys can help ensure that you have the necessary legal guidance and support throughout the process.
Why Choose K Tshitahe Attorneys?
At K Tshitahe Attorneys, we understand the legal complexities involved in customary marriages and divorces. We provide expert legal guidance to help you navigate:
- Proving the existence of your customary marriage.
- Obtaining a marriage certificate from Home Affairs.
- Initiating and finalizing the divorce process with minimal emotional and financial stress.
📍 Office Address: Premium Towers, Office 504, 296 Pretorius Street, Pretoria Central
📞 Contact Number: 012 001 1159
📧 Email: info@ktshitahe-attorneys.co.za
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If you have lost your lobola letter and need legal assistance, contact us today to ensure a smooth legal process for your customary marriage or divorce.
