Imagine what a disaster it would be if, after you have bought your new dream house and moved the family in, you are told you must vacate immediately because no “occupancy certificate” was ever issued.

How can that be? What is an occupancy certificate? Is it vital to have one? Is there a general duty on a seller to provide you with one? We address those questions in the context of a recent High Court decision which confirms that it’s up to you to protect yourself in that regard! We’ll show you how.

 


Chennells Albertyn Attorneys's Monthly Newsletter
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April 2024 NEWSLETTER
Property: Why Do You Need an Occupancy Certificate Before You Buy?

Imagine what a disaster it would be if, after you have bought your new dream house and moved the family in, you are told you must vacate immediately because no “occupancy certificate” was ever issued.

How can that be? What is an occupancy certificate? Is it vital to have one? Is there a general duty on a seller to provide you with one? We address those questions in the context of a recent High Court decision which confirms that it’s up to you to protect yourself in that regard! We’ll show you how.

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Who Owns Your Employee’s Invention? Lessons from the “Please Call Me” Saga
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Many bitterly-contested court battles between employers and their employees could have been avoided if the employers in question had, when drawing up their employment contracts, addressed the question: “Who owns something invented by my employee?”

It’s the sort of thing that’s easily overlooked, but as the widely-reported “Please Call Me” court case saga shows, huge amounts of money could be at stake. We address the answer to that question and explain how to avoid confusion and dispute in the context of the trainee accountant, his long-distance girlfriend, and his bright idea. 

   
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How to Safeguard Your Digital Presence: A Simple Checklist for Website Compliance
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Learn how to safeguard your digital presence with our checklist for website compliance. Discover why compliance is crucial for legal, ethical, and brand reputation considerations, and explore key aspects such as legal requirements, accessibility, privacy, security, and more. 

By integrating compliance into the earliest stages of your website development process, you can minimize risks, build trust with users, and avoid costly consequences. Our guide will help you maximize both the security and the marketing effectiveness of all your digital platforms.

   
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When to Lawyer Up
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Legal advice and help can be a lifesaver in many situations, from buying a house to starting a business or dealing with disputes. Seeking the right legal advice can help protect your rights and ensure that you make informed decisions. 

This article will guide you on when to seek legal help. With the right legal support, you can navigate the legal system with confidence and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. So, don't be intimidated by the legal system! Read on to find out more…

   
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Legal Speak Made Easy
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“Pro Bono”

Pro bono” (or “pro bono publico” meaning “for the public good”) is normally used in the context of free legal advice and assistance given by lawyers to people unable to afford them, but it can also refer to other professional services provided voluntarily and without charge.

Per the Law Society of South Africa, “To qualify for free legal assistance, a person must comply with a ‘means test’ (a maximum monthly or no income) and have a legal problem with merit … If a referral is made to a pro bono attorney, the client is responsible only for the cost of disbursements (actual expenses), such as Sheriffs’ fees, and the attorney will not charge any fees for the work and legal services provided.”

   
Disclaimer

The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your professional adviser for specific and detailed advice.


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