When a couple divorces, the non-member spouse (the spouse not belonging to the retirement fund) may claim a portion of the member spouse's pension interest. This claim can be made in a divorce settlement agreement, which is then made an order of the court.

One key legal provision that governs these financial matters in South Africa is Section 7 of the Divorce Act 70 of 1979. This section lays out the framework for determining how assets are divided upon divorce. An important aspect of this is the potential for a spouse to claim forfeiture of benefits.

In this post, we will unpack how Section 7 of the Divorce Act operates and explain what a forfeiture claim entails.

An uncontested divorce is a type of divorce where both spouses agree on all the terms of their separation, such as division of property, child custody, spousal support, and so on. An uncontested divorce has many benefits compared to a contested divorce.

Ombuds seek to resolve disputes (to the benefit of all parties) fairly, efficiently, and cost-effectively by acting as mediators between complainants and the entity being complained about. Many have the power to make binding “determinations”. Most are free to complainants.