Services

Family Law

We are able to assist with all legal issues which can affect the family, from advising prospective spouses regarding the various matrimonial property regimes and the drafting of ante-nuptial contracts, to dealing with divorce matters, protection orders, the division of joint estates, as well as issues with regards to maintenance and care and contact of minor children. Given that this area of the law often deals with issues of a sensitive nature, MHI takes great care in approaching family law matters with compassion, with the interests of the minor children involved being paramount.

Related services include:

  • Drafting ante-nuptial contracts.
  • Divorces, both contested and uncontested
  • Protection Orders
  • Maintenance
  • Care and contact of minor children
  • Child abduction

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Michelle Bisschoff
Professional Assistant (Attorney, Notary & Conveyancer)
LLB
“Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today” – Jordan B. Peterson

Michelle completed her studies part-time, whilst working in the edtech/ digital publishing space, however redirected her career path upon completion of her LLB degree at UNISA in 2013.. She joined the MHI team as a candidate attorney in 2014 and after completing her articles she was admitted as an attorney in 2016.

Michelle practices in a wide range of commercial, family law and conveyancing related matters, including construction disputes, evictions, divorces, contractual disputes, insurance, personal injury and damages claims. Considered a “jack of all trades”, Michelle will be quick to remind you of the full quote: “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”

Michelle enjoys conducting legal research in order to advise her clients on their specific issues and considers her attention to detail and consistency to be her strengths.

In her spare time, Michelle enjoys reading true crime, listening to podcasts on various topics, going to the beach with her three dogs and would one day like to travel to Scandinavia to see the northern lights.

Ruan du Preez
Professional Assistant (Attorney)
B.Comm LLB
“Be sure to put your feet in the right place, and then stand firm.” – Abraham Lincoln

Ruan du Preez, graduated from the North West University obtaining both a B.Comm Law and LLB degree. He commenced articles in 2014 and after completing his articles and being admitted as an attorney in 2016, Ruan practiced as such for the past 7 years. Over the years he has proven himself to be a trustworthy and reliable individual with an unbelievable drive and passion for the law and who always puts the client’s needs first. His excellent track record speaks for itself.

Ruan specializes in Civil litigation, Labour- and Family Law, and prides himself in his ability to negotiate and settle matters out of court avoiding unnecessary legal costs and or prolonged court proceedings. He recently joined the MHI team and now heads the litigation department.

Marli Smuts
Professional Assistant (Attorney & Conveyancer)
LLB
“Do what you love and success will follow. Passion is the fuel behind success.” — Meg Whitman

Marli obtained her LLB degree at the University of Stellenbosch in 2018. She completed her articles and was admitted as an attorney in February 2021 starting her career as a litigation attorney.
In February 2023 she was admitted as a conveyancer.

Marli specializes in civil litigation, family law and conveyancing related matters, including evictions, divorces, liquidations, sequestrations, personal injury and damages claims.

She considers herself to be highly organized, motivated and someone who enjoys working with others. As a result-driven attorney Marli strives to achieve the best outcome for her clients.

When taking the odd break from practicing law, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, shopping and experimenting in the kitchen.

Warren Foster
Professional Assistant (Attorney)
LLB
“You cannot plow a field by turning it over in your mind. To begin, begin.” - Gordon B. Hinckley

Initially setting out in the world as a journalist, Warren completed his LLB while working full time as a copy editor in the broadcast industry. He made the leap into law in 2016 and has not looked back.

Warren will try his hand at nearly every field available to him but holds a particular affinity for the family law, contracts, delict, and dispute resolution arenas. Warren believes in quickly ascertaining the trajectory a matter will follow and giving his clients the most effective and economic path to their desired outcomes. Ever the wordsmith, Warren takes great pride in his drafting, whether compiling a comprehensive claim or winning argument, the maxim of the pen being mightier than the sword has never been truer.

Outside of the office (and court), Warren loves nothing more than a long run, watching football and spending time with his family.

Francois Malherbe
Candidate Attorney
B.Comm LLB

 

Francois is a dedicated and driven candidate attorney, bringing a passion for the legal profession and a commitment to providing excellent service to clients.

Since joining MHI in January 2022, Francois has been actively involved in various areas of law, including civil litigation, debt collection and general contract law. With a sharp analytical mind and a meticulous attention to detail, Francois consistently delivers high-quality work and assists in ensuring that clients receive the best possible legal representation.

Francois obtained both his Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degrees from Stellenbosch University and is currently completing the requirements for admission as an attorney.

With a natural ability to build rapport with clients, Francois excels in client communication and ensures that clients feel heard and supported throughout their legal journey. His ability to explain complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner empowers clients to make informed decisions. As Francois continues to grow professionally, he remains dedicated to expanding his knowledge and staying up-to-date with the latest legal developments.

Driven by a strong sense of justice and a genuine desire to help others, Francois is committed to pursuing excellence in the legal profession.