Times have changed and this is certainly no longer the position accepted by public opinion. Many people who, with meaning and foresight, enter into a marriage to think about what would happen in the event of a problem want to enter into these constructive agreements, much like insurance policies, to try to protect their financial position in the event of a divorce. While this safety net may seem unromantic, it offers a peaceful alternative to legal action and helps avoid leaving your financial future to the discretion of the court. Pre-marital agreements are designed to guarantee your wealth (property, retirement and savings) in the event of a breakdown of your marriage. In addition to the security of property, the purpose of a marriage pact is to allow a couple to marry, with the peace of mind of knowing that in the event of a breakdown of the marriage, their wealth and monetary security are assured. A pre-marriage contract is a type of planning, so financial issues are settled as much as possible in advance, usually in the event of divorce and sometimes in the event of death. Why is independent legal assistance essential for both parties to a pre-marital agreement? Marriage is a wonderful and positive occasion – arranging a marital agreement should not soothe the atmosphere. A mediator can help them not to do so. The courts will not require a person to do all the housework or to have the children raised in a particular religion. [41] In recent years, some couples have included social media provisions in their marriage contracts and have set rules on what can be posted on social media during the marriage, and in case the marriage is dissolved. [43] In South Africa, a civil marriage or a union of right of life is by default a marriage in a community of ownership. To marry from the condominium, the parties must sign, before their marriage, a registration contract in the presence of a notary and the contract must be registered with the Property Affairs Office within three months of the signing of the contract. If you have any doubts about whether to review your marriage pact, we strongly advise you to seek advice from a lawyer.