Case law
Important judgments and practical implications for family law practitioners across the Western Cape High Court and regional jurisdictions.
Western Cape Family Law Forum
For and by Western Cape family lawyers.
A voluntary practitioner forum advancing knowledge, good practice and responsible engagement across family law.
Western
Cape
Cape
Our purpose
Better-informed practice. Stronger professional connection.
The Forum keeps practitioners abreast of family law case law, SALRC issue papers, Bills before Parliament, alternative dispute resolution and evolving good practice.
Bills & issue papers
Updates on law reform, consultations, SALRC recommendations and proposed statutory frameworks for arbitration.
International updates
Developments from organisations linked to family law across Commonwealth and international jurisdictions (IFLA, IAFL, HCCH).
Keerom Street & Cape Bar Presence
Local Heritage
Serving the Western Cape Legal Fraternity
From the historic legal chambers around Keerom and Queen Victoria Streets to practitioners across the Cape Peninsula, Winelands, and Overberg, the Forum provides a collaborative space for continuous learning and peer support.
Notices, Directives & Case Law
Practice advisories and updates for members.
Practice Directive2026/10/14
Western Cape High Court Practice Directive: Family Law Urgent Roll
Updates to directive procedures regarding rule 43 financial applications and urgent child care hearings before the Judge President in Cape Town.
Case Law2026/10/14
Judicial Precedent: Central Authority & Cross-Border Relocation
Analysis of the recent Full Bench ruling concerning psychological assessments and Hague Convention safeguards in inter-jurisdictional disputes.
Events2026/10/14
Quarterly Forum Roundtable: Arbitration Readiness
Hybrid panel convening at Keerom Street, Cape Town and online via Zoom, examining the SALRC Draft Arbitration Bill and practitioner readiness.
Engagement and good practice
The Forum liaises with the LSSA Family Law Committee and international organisations including the HCCH, IAFL, IBA, CLA, EALS and REUNITE. It comments on SALRC work, proposed Bills, and engages with the Office of the Family Advocate and pro bono legal initiatives.
Its work is guided by an unwavering commitment to deal with family law issues in a dignified and responsible manner, with the best interests of children at heart.