In South Africa, family maintenance involves financial support obligations between family members, particularly following separation, divorce, or in situations where a child is born outside of marriage. Maintenance ensures that dependents—especially children—receive adequate support to meet their basic needs.Maintenance is regulated by several laws, including:The Maintenance Act 99 of 1998The Children’s Act 38 of 2005The Divorce Act 70 of 1979.

There are so many dynamics to this. - Spousal support for unmarried couples that are in cohabitation.- Maintenance via the other spouse when the parent is unemployed or is unable to pay the support. - Going via the grandparents if the said parent is unemployed or is a minor.

Zizipho Zips Mpopma gets into this and more with  Ms Ntombi Dina the director of ND Attorneys.