Divorce, custody and common misconceptions

A couple does not get married with the intention to divorce a few years later.

- Maretha Swanepoel

While some divorces are quick and amicable, others - especially those involving children - can lead to custody disputes, maintenance issues, and visiting rights challenges.

Polokwane Observer spoke with Andries Rheeder from Rheeder Attorneys about how the primary residence of children is

determined and what contact rights the other parent retains.

The outdated term 'custody and control' is no longer used in legal practice. Instead, the term 'primary residence' applies.

“This means that one parent is awarded the primary residence of the minor child - where he or she normally stays,” Rheeder explained.