Disputes with neighbours take many forms, and they can quickly escalate into costly and expensive litigation. So nipping them in the bud will always be first prize, and when it comes to fights over construction activity – whether it be a whole new building or additions/alterations – a good place to start is with municipal approval of building plans. Without such approval, construction cannot as a general rule proceed.

We discuss a recent Constitutional Court decision regarding what factors the municipality (or rather the “decision maker” municipal employee tasked with the job) must take into account when considering building plans. Know and enforce your rights here! It could save you from having to live with a major problem next door.

Government has “cried wolf” on the AARTO demerit system so many times now that many of us have lost sight of just how seriously it will affect us when it finally comes into force. Now the wheels of implementation are turning – fast. It’s time to prepare!

The fact is that every motorist, every vehicle owner, every professional driver, every transport operator, indeed every employer, will be at risk. We discuss what demerit points are, how they are allocated and reduced, how and when your driver’s licence is at risk.

Last but certainly not least, we share a table of some common traffic offences and the demerit points they carry. There are some real surprises there…

Access to Justice can be a costly and complicated affair, leading government to provide an alternative to our mainstream courts. The idea is to help you resolve disputes in a “speedy, affordable and simple manner” using our Small Claims Court system.

Who can use the Small Claims Court? Who can you sue? What sorts of claims can you pursue? How much can you claim and what happens if your claim exceeds the limit?

We address all those questions, and end off with a thought on seeking legal advice when even a seemingly minor claim might have wider ramifications.

Can music affect how productive we are at work? How creative, and how successful at learning new material?

No less a scientist than Albert Einstein once said “I often think in music”, so if you find music an important part of your work life you’re in good company.

We refer you to a website discussing what science says we should be listening to and when, what the “right track” is for the “right task”, and the ideal musical tempo for “alpha state” calm alertness and concentration.

Happy (and productive) listening awaits!