June 2025 marks a significant milestone for Durban-based attorney Susan Abro, who celebrates 30 years at the helm of her specialist law firm, Susan Abro Attorney. With over three decades in practice and a well-earned reputation in the field of Family Law and Litigation, Abro has become a trusted legal guide for families navigating the complexities of life’s most challenging and defining moments. To mark this milestone, she reflects on the key stages where families should consider legal support — from birth to death.
“Family law isn’t just about divorce – it’s about safeguarding your family’s responsibilities and rights at every phase of life,” says Abro. “The law impacts us from the moment we’re born until long after we pass away. Knowing when to seek legal advice can make all the difference.”
Early years
The journey begins with children, who are protected under South Africa’s Children’s Act. The best interests of the child form the foundation of the Act, underpinning all legal decisions regarding matters such as residence, contact, maintenance, and co-parental responsibilities and rights. Legal support becomes even more critical in cases involving adoption — both local and international — as well as surrogacy. Abro’s firm adheres to the principles of the Hague Convention on International Abduction, offering clients legal guidance in complex cross-border matters.
Young adults and marriage
As children grow and families evolve, legal needs shift. Parents remain responsible for supporting their children until they become self-supporting. If a person marries before reaching that point, the responsibility may fall to the spouse.
Legal advice becomes crucial at the point of marriage. “Before tying the knot, couples should consult a family lawyer to understand the implications of different matrimonial regimes,” explains Abro. Under South African law, couples can marry in or out of community of property, with or without accrual, as outlined in the Matrimonial Property Act. Alongside the existing Marriage Act, a new Marriage Bill is expected to transform South Africa’s legal framework for marriage. This progressive legislation will recognise a wider range of unions, including same-sex marriages, religious and cultural marriages, and long-term life partnerships (commonly referred to as common-law marriages) by classifying them as protected relationships.
Navigating divorce
Should the relationship come to an end, the legal process of divorce is governed by the Divorce Act. While every case is different, most divorces involve a decree of divorce and legal considerations around children, the division of the marital estate/proprietary consequences, and spousal or child maintenance. “Even in seemingly amicable divorces, legal advice is essential to protect everyone’s rights, especially when children are involved,” notes Abro. She adds that, with legal guidance, separating parties can often reach agreements that are fair, enforceable, and focused on long-term stability.
Planning for the inevitable
Later in life, as individuals begin to plan for the inevitable, issues such as wills, estates, trusts, and end-of-life decisions become increasingly relevant. Drafting a will allows individuals to clearly outline their wishes regarding the distribution of assets, the appointment of an executor, and the care of any minor children. In the case of minors, a testamentary trust may be required to manage their inheritance, necessitating the appointment of trustees. Where no will is in place, the estate is administered under the laws of intestate succession, which may not reflect the deceased’s intentions. “A will can be one of the greatest gifts you leave your family — it provides clarity and guidance during a difficult time,” says Abro.
Other important considerations at this stage include living wills, organ donation, and instructions regarding the disposal of remains. Individuals may also wish to establish a general or medical power of attorney, although Abro notes that these powers cease to be valid once a person is no longer capable of making decisions. In such cases, it may be necessary to appoint a Curator Bonis to manage financial matters, or a Curator ad Litem to handle legal affairs. For those interested in more comprehensive estate planning, inter vivos (or living) trusts can offer flexibility and tax advantages, provided they are correctly established and administered. These trusts require at least three trustees, including one independent trustee, and must comply with applicable tax regulations.
An evolving legal landscape
South Africa’s Constitutional democracy ensures that laws continue to evolve. “Our legal system is ever-changing,” Abro explains. “That’s why it’s important for families to stay informed and seek legal advice before making major life decisions. It’s not only about solving problems; it’s about being proactive and prepared.”
Seek trusted legal guidance
Whether you’re drafting a will, finalising an anti-nuptial contract, or resolving a parenting dispute, it’s important to seek trusted legal guidance for life’s most significant moments — from cradle to grave.
Reflecting on three decades of running her own practice, Abro reflects on her career with gratitude. “Every family is unique, and every case is personal. It’s been a privilege to walk alongside my clients, offering clarity, compassion, and sound legal advice,” she concludes.