Customary marriages, also known as traditional marriages, have been an integral part of South African culture for centuries. However, the legal requirements for these marriages have only been recognized by the South African government since the passing of the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act in 1998. This legislation recognizes the validity of customary marriages entered into after the Act’s commencement date of 15 November 2000.
What is a Customary Marriage?
A customary marriage is a union between a man and a woman, solemnized in accordance with the customs and traditions of a specific cultural or religious community. Customary marriages are not limited to a specific ethnic group, but rather can include any community that recognizes traditional marriage practices. This type of marriage is different from a civil marriage, which is governed by the Marriage Act of 1961.
Key Legal Requirements
- Consensual: Both parties must enter into the marriage voluntarily and with the full consent of both parties.
- Age of Majority: Both parties must be over the age of 18 or have obtained the consent of their parents or guardians if they are under the age of 18.
- Witnesses: The marriage must be witnessed by at least two people.
- Formalization: It is essential that a customary marriage is formalized by registering the marriage with the Department of Home Affairs within three months of the marriage.
Community of property
It is important to note that customary marriage is automatically in community of property, which means that all assets and liabilities acquired during the marriage are jointly owned by both parties. If parties wish to exclude certain assets or liabilities from community of property, they must sign an antenuptial contract prior to the marriage. This contract, also known as a prenuptial agreement, can only be signed by parties who are not yet married and must be registered with the relevant authority prior to the marriage.
Benefits of a Customary Marriage
- Legal recognition: The Recognition of Customary Marriages Act gives legal recognition to customary marriages, providing parties with the same rights and responsibilities as parties in a civil marriage.
- Inheritance rights: Parties in a customary marriage have the right to inherit from each other in terms of the Intestate Succession Act.
- Property rights: Parties in a customary marriage have the right to acquire, use, and dispose of property together.
- Maintenance rights: Parties in a customary marriage have the right to claim maintenance from each other in the event of a divorce or dissolution of the marriage.
Dissolution of Customary Marriage
In the event that the marriage breaks down, it’s important to understand the process for dissolving a customary marriage. The same laws that apply to the dissolution of civil marriages also apply to customary marriages, including the Divorce Act of 1979. This means that parties in a customary marriage have the right to divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences, as well as on grounds such as mental illness or desertion.
Additionally, Customary marriages may also be dissolved through the traditional processes of the relevant community, such as the lobola payment of bride price. These traditional processes should not, however, be in conflict with the laws of South Africa
Conclusion
In conclusion, Customary marriages are a beautiful and valid form of marriage in South Africa, providing parties with the same rights and responsibilities as parties in a civil marriage. If you’re thinking about entering into a customary marriage, make sure you’re aware of the legal requirements and responsibilities and have a lawyer to guide you through the process.
At Mashitisho Attorneys, we have a team of experienced attorneys who can guide you through the process of formalizing your customary marriage, advise you on your rights and responsibilities, including those antenuptial contract and help you through the process of dissolution if needed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you navigate the legal requirements for a Customary Marriage in South Africa.