Answers to your questions
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Topic: Customary marriage | Show questions and answers for all topics
How can I leave a customary marriage if I lost the lobola negotiations letter and we didn't register the marriage at Home Affairs?
There are other ways that you can prove your marriage to get divorced.
Can I get money from my husband who left me after four years married under Islamic law?
In Islam, it states clearly that the husband is responsible for providing for his wife and children financially. But you may need legal help.
Can I remarry after separating from the woman for whom I paid lobola?
You can only remarry if you get divorced, or if she and the court agree to you taking a second wife.
Can I change the terms of my marriage so that I can marry a second wife?
You cannot marry a second wife under customary law if you are already married to the first under civil law.
Must the deceased's wives inherit the estate in equal shares if the first marriage is under civil law and the other is customary?
Not unless he wrote a will. You cannot remarry if you are still in a civil law marriage.
If a couple is separated but not divorced, can the husband remarry?
Not without the first wife and the court's permission
My late husband married another woman without my knowledge and left his estate to her. What can I do?
Because you did not agree to the second marriage, it is void. You can contest the will.
What are the rights of children born in a polygamous marriage?
If the first wife agreed to the second marriage, the second wife and her children have the same protection and rights.
Can you marry someone under customary law if you are already married under civil law to someone else?
No, the law is very clear on this.
My uncle took everything when my dad died because my parents were in a customary marriage. Is that right?
It was until 2004 when the laws changed to allow women in customary marriages to inherit.