Expert Legal Guidance Through Your Divorce

Divorce Lawyers in Johannesburg

Divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. At Hugh Raichlin Attorneys, our divorce lawyers in Johannesburg combine decades of legal expertise with a human-centred approach, guiding you through every stage of the process to protect your rights and achieve a fair outcome.

Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, we work to minimise conflict, protect your interests, and prioritise your family’s well-being.

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Our Location​

Norwood, Johannesburg

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011 483 1527

Protecting Your Future

Making Informed Choices During Uncertain Times

Prevents unfair settlement agreements
Protects your share of assets and property
Ensures compliance with South African law
Avoids unnecessary court delays or costs
Provides objective advice during emotional transitions
Structured • Fair • Compliant

Tailored Divorce Solutions for Every Situation

  1. Uncontested Divorce: For couples who have agreed on financial, custody, and maintenance terms. We prepare all necessary documentation, file with the court, and finalise the divorce efficiently. A comprehensive divorce settlement agreement to be made an order of court.
    Learn More About Divorce Mediation →
  2. Contested Divorce: When disputes arise regarding finances, property, or children. Our approach is to negotiate assertively on your behalf to reach a settlement. If that fails, we are formidable litigators, prepared to fight for your rights in court.
  3. Mediation-First Divorce: Aligned with the Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive, we facilitate resolution through accredited mediation before litigation. This approach saves time, cost, and stress.
    Read About the Mandatory Mediation Directive →
  4. Settlement Agreements: We draft and formalise legally binding settlement agreements covering property division, custody, and maintenance.
    Why Settlement Agreements Matter →
contested divorce vs uncontested divorce
Experience • Compassion • Integrity

Why Families Trust Hugh Raichlin Attorneys

With over 30 years of family law experience, Hugh Raichlin Attorneys has guided clients through divorce with clarity, care, and professionalism. We balance strong legal advocacy with compassion and practical solutions that preserve dignity.

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our Divorce Process

Most divorces can be resolved within months when approached constructively. Our goal is to make the process as efficient and stress-free as possible — without compromising fairness or compliance.

  1. Initial Consultation: We meet to understand your unique circumstances, your goals, and your concerns.
  2. Case Assessment: Reviewing documents, financials, and agreements.
  3. Strategic Planning: Advising on settlement or litigation strategies. Read more: Top Divorce Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
  4. Summons & Pleadings: The legal process begins with the issuing of a summons. The other party then has an opportunity to respond and state their case.
  5. Discovery of Documents: Both parties are required to disclose all relevant financial documents. This is a critical step to ensure a fair division of assets.
  6. Negotiation & Mediation: We will actively seek to resolve the dispute through negotiation or formal mediation to avoid unnecessary court battles. Read more: Property and Asset Division in Divorce
  7. Interim Relief (Rule 43): If necessary, while the divorce is pending, we can launch a Rule 43 application for interim maintenance or custody arrangements.
  8. Litigation (if required): If no settlement is reached, we will represent your interests assertively in court. Read more: Divorce Costs in South Africa – Understanding Legal Fees and Expenses
  9. Finalisation: We ensure your decree of divorce is granted and that all agreements are legally enforceable. Read more: Post‑Divorce Legal Matters in South Africa – Maintenance and Enforcement
divorce process
Constructive Resolution • Court Compliance

Why Mediation Should Be Your First Step

The Gauteng High Court’s mandatory mediation directive encourages mediation before divorce litigation begins. Mediation helps couples resolve disputes faster, preserve dignity, and maintain privacy — often achieving results that are more sustainable than court orders.

Our accredited mediators assist with:

  • Division of assets and property settlements
  • Child custody and access arrangements
  • Maintenance and financial planning
  • Drafting parenting and settlement agreements
advantages of adr infographic hugh raichlin
custody care financial support hugh raichlin
Child-Focused • Legally Sound

Prioritising the Best Interests of the Child

Divorce doesn’t end parenting — it redefines it. We assist parents in developing legally compliant, emotionally sensitive arrangements that uphold the best interests of the child as required by the Children’s Act.

Our services include:

  • Drafting and registering parenting plans
  • Representing clients in custody and guardianship applications
  • Ensuring fair maintenance obligations
  • Facilitating child-inclusive mediation
  • Learn More About Custody & Maintenance →
Common Pitfalls & Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes That Can Complicate a Divorce

  • Skipping Mediation – Courts expect mediation before litigation. Ignoring this can increase costs.
    Learn More About Mandatory Mediation →
  • Signing Unfair Agreements – Always have legal review before signing settlement terms.
    Why Settlement Agreements Matter →
  • Neglecting Financial Disclosure – Hiding or omitting assets undermines your case and can lead to penalties.
  • Overlooking Emotional Impact – Divorce affects children and co-parenting relationships; our attorneys provide guidance that balances law and empathy.
    Preparing for Divorce →
  • Financial Exposure: Without the right legal guidance, hidden debts or unfair settlements can leave you financially vulnerable. We safeguard your interests and ensure equitable division of assets. Read more: Property and Asset Division in Divorce
  • Parental Disputes: Custody battles can cause lasting emotional harm. Our team prioritises the children’s best interests, while protecting your parental rightsRead more: Divorce and Child Custody in South Africa
  • Prolonged Proceedings: Divorce disputes can drag on for years if not managed strategically. We focus on proactive negotiation, mediation, and clear case strategies to streamline the process.
  • Emotional Strain: Divorce often comes with high levels of stress. We offer compassionate guidance and connect you with support resources where needed. Read more: Divorce Mediation Services in South Africa
  • Costly Mistakes: Poorly drafted agreements or overlooked details can create legal and financial problems long after divorce. We ensure documents are watertight and enforceable. Read more: Divorce Costs in South Africa – Understanding Legal Fees and Expenses
top 5 divorce mistakes
Attorneys with specialist expertise

Our team brings accredited skills across property, family, commercial, labour, and mediation law.

Over 30 Years Of Experience​

Trusted by generations of clients since 1993.

500+ Family & Divorce Cases Resolved

Guiding families through sensitive matters with compassion and clarity.

Reported High Court & Supreme Court of Appeal Judgments

Our cases have shaped South African common law and set lasting precedents.

Common Questions Answered

Divorce Law FAQs

Take the Next Step

Begin Your Next Chapter with Confidence

The end of a marriage is a difficult transition, but the right legal partner can make all the difference. Contact our expert divorce lawyers in Johannesburg today to secure your future.

Whether your divorce is amicable or complex, Hugh Raichlin Attorneys offers the clarity and care you need to move forward. We protect your rights, your family, and your peace of mind.

Contact Us

Here\’s how you can contact us for any questions or concerns.

1 The Avenue, Norwood, Johannesburg 2192

Send Us a Message

Send us a message for any questions or just say hi!

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