Each August, as we celebrate Women's Month, we reflect on the courage of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956. Their actions helped shape our country's history and continue to remind us of the importance of equality, dignity and opportunity for all. As we honour their legacy, let us also recommit ourselves to building a future where everyone can reach their full potential.
In this edition of WiseUp, we share practical legal information to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights. We explore the legal and financial risks of signing a suretyship agreement, explain the rights of pregnant employees on fixed-term contracts, and unpack how the Employment Equity Amendment Act could improve women's representation in leadership positions. We also discuss the greater legal recognition now afforded to Muslim marriages following a landmark Constitutional Court judgment and explain your rights and responsibilities if someone leaves their property in your care for an extended period.
Remember that you also have access to assistance with non-covered matters through our Network of Lawyers. While these matters fall outside your Membership benefits and are handled at your own cost, you can still benefit from LegalWise-negotiated tariffs. Since launching this benefit, Members have made use of it in 61 civil matters, 25 labour matters, 7 criminal matters and 7 Platinum Services-related matters, including disputes involving marriages, relationships and incidents that occurred before the commencement of cover.
As part of our ongoing efforts to improve our operations and service delivery, the Red Phones at our Lichtenburg, Brits, Port Shepstone, Uitenhage and Worcester Attorney Branches will permanently close on 31 July 2026. If you require assistance, you can visit your nearest LegalWise Branch: Mahikeng (for Lichtenburg), Rustenburg (for Brits), Durban (for Port Shepstone), Gqeberha (for Uitenhage) or Bellville (for Worcester). Alternatively, call us on 010 271 2255, WhatsApp us on 071 640 0337 or email legal@legalwise.co.za.
We've also made it even easier to access legal support online. Visit our newly revamped website to explore practical legal information, free downloadable contracts and templates, and other helpful resources. You can also chat with Charlotte, our new AI Assistant, on our website or via WhatsApp. Charlotte can answer your legal questions, guide you to relevant information and, when needed, connect you directly with one of our Consultants or Legal Counsellors for further assistance.
Thank you for choosing LegalWise. We remain committed to helping you understand your rights, make informed decisions and access trusted legal support whenever you need it.
#BeLegalWise
Siva Gengan
Chief Executive Officer