AJ van Tonder Inc AttorneysMediation-first mindset
Where appropriate, we explore mediation before litigation to reduce cost, delay and conflict.
Family Law & Deceased Estates
Personal matters deserve clarity, dignity and care.
Divorce, mediation, maintenance, children's matters, antenuptial contracts, wills and deceased estates handled with sensitivity and practical legal direction.
Family, relationships, legacy
Nine areas of focused support.
Family and estate matters are rarely only legal — they are personal. We combine technical accuracy with a calm, direct approach so you always know where your matter stands.
01
Antenuptial Contracts
Protecting each spouse's finances before marriage, with or without accrual.
02
Divorce
Contested and uncontested proceedings handled with clarity and care.
03
Family Mediation
A structured, neutral process for reaching practical agreements.
04
Maintenance
Claims, applications and variations for child and spousal maintenance.
05
Children's Court
Care, protection and placement matters affecting minor children.
06
Parental Rights & Responsibilities
Guardianship, care and contact for married and unmarried parents.
07
Change of Marital Status
Applying to the High Court to change your matrimonial property regime.
08
Last Will & Testament
Ensuring your wishes are clearly and validly recorded.
09
Deceased Estates
Full administration from reporting the estate through to final distribution.
Sensitive matters, handled personally
Every family situation is different.
Every family situation is different.
Every client deserves to be heard.
We take the time to understand the people behind each matter before recommending a legal route — whether that is negotiation, mediation or formal court process.
Why clients trust AVT with family matters
Guidance built around your circumstances, not a template.
Plain-language advice
Legal terminology is explained clearly so you can make informed, confident decisions.
Full estate support
From drafting a will today to administering an estate when the time comes, one firm supports the full journey.
Client experiences
Trusted with the matters that matter most.
“Ansa negotiated a good settlement and finalised my divorce quickly and efficiently.”
“Everything was done quickly and professionally. I am grateful and could not have handled it alone.”
Yes. Uncontested matters are generally quicker and more cost-effective; contested matters are managed with equal care and clear communication throughout.
They may apply jointly to the High Court, provided the legal requirements are met and creditors are not prejudiced.
Review it after marriage, divorce, a birth, a death, acquiring property, or any major change in your wishes or assets.
The estate is reported to the Master of the High Court with the prescribed documents so that Letters of Executorship or Authority can be issued.
Yes, both types are handled, with the approach tailored to whether the parties are in agreement or in dispute.
It investigates and makes recommendations on care, contact and guardianship disputes involving minor children, assisting the court in reaching a decision.
Yes, in appropriate circumstances a grandparent may approach the court for a contact order if access is being unreasonably withheld.
Yes, a will ensures your specific wishes are followed regardless of estate size, rather than the default rules of intestate succession applying.
Yes, mediation is also useful for parenting disputes, estate disagreements between heirs, and other family conflicts.
Typically the death certificate, the original will (if any), an inventory of assets and liabilities, and identity documents of the executor and heirs.