Dear Member,

Investing in our people, infrastructure and the future is not an option, it is an absolute necessity. The past twelve months, albeit under difficult circumstances, has seen us being able to launch our video consultation service on WhatsApp and Zoom, updating our Membership Agreement by adding new matters that now enjoy insurance cover and enhancing our communication platforms to ensure speedy responses. We have listened. We have heard you. We are taking action.

To keep up with the increasing costs of providing legal expenses insurance, our insurance benefits and premiums will increase from 1 July 2022. We have been mindful of the state of the South African economy and as such we've kept the increases to a minimum.

Following the changes to the LegalWise Membership Agreement, we have received questions from Members regarding the content in certain sections. Read the answers to some of the questions we received.

Further, in this edition of the newsletter we discuss an overview of a disciplinary hearing process, the role of the chairperson and within what duration you can refer a dispute for an unfair dismissal to the CCMA. Read more.

Investing in your future by furthering your education is important and you'd like to be assured that your chosen institution or qualification is accredited. Learn how to spot a “fly by night” academic institution. But then again, sometimes furthering one's education is constrained by lack of funds. Read more about bursaries and what they involve.

In our FAQ section we discuss what rights and remedies are available in respect of teenage pregnancies.

We look forward to commemorating Youth Day on June 16 and Youth Month which will be celebrated under the theme: “The Year of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke: Growing youth employment for an inclusive and transformed society.” After all, a transformed youth is a transformed future.

We will be launching a new service offering tax advice and assistance for personal income tax matters from 1 July 2022 for the main Member.

Our thoughts and prayers go to all those affected by the recent and devastating floods in KZN.

#BeLegalWise

Yours sincerely,

Siva Gengan