Do I Need a Marriage Contract?
Short answer: almost certainly yes.
You Should Get a Marriage Contract If:
- You own or plan to start a business — without a contract, your spouse co-owns half of it
- Either of you has debts — in community of property, those debts become shared
- One of you earns significantly more — accrual protects the lower-earning spouse
- You own property, savings, or investments — a contract protects what you bring into the marriage
- This is a second marriage — protect assets for children from a previous relationship
- You want financial independence — the ability to buy, sell, and borrow without needing permission
Wedding Countdown — Marriage Contract Checklist
6+ Months Before
Ideal timing. Discuss your options. Read our guide. Apply at your convenience.
3 Months Before
Still comfortable. Plenty of time for drafting, signing, and Deeds Office registration.
1 Month Before
Getting tight. Apply immediately. We’ll prioritise your matter.
2 Weeks Before
Urgent, but still possible. Contact us directly — every day counts.
This Week
Extremely tight. Call us immediately. We will do everything in our power to assist.
Common Misconceptions
“We can sort it out after the wedding”
You can — but it costs R15,000–R25,000 and takes 3–5 months. A marriage contract before the wedding costs R1,950 and takes days.
“We trust each other, so we don’t need one”
A marriage contract isn’t about trust. It protects both of you from unexpected consequences — a failed business, retrenchment, creditors. Trust doesn’t stop creditors.
“Marriage contracts are only for wealthy people”
R1,950 now versus tens of thousands in legal fees if things go wrong. One of the most affordable legal protections you’ll ever get.
“It’s too late — our wedding is next week”
Maybe not. Contact us immediately — we handle urgent matters regularly.
What Financial Advisors Say
Virtually every financial planner in South Africa recommends marrying out of community of property. The risks of the default regime — shared debt, insolvency exposure, consent requirements — are simply too high for most couples.
Take 10 Minutes to Protect Your Financial Future
Our online application takes about 10 minutes. We handle everything from there. R1,950 all-inclusive.
Start Your Marriage Contract