FORMALITIES FOR MARRIAGES

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Last updated 3:24 PM on 6/20/26
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16 Terms

1
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What are the three types of marriages recognized in South Africa?

Civil Marriage, Civil Union, and Customary Marriage.

2
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Which Acts regulate the formalities of civil marriages in South Africa?

The Marriage Act 25 of 1961 and the Civil Union Act 17 of 2006.

3
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 Can a person who is already in a civil marriage enter into a customary marriage?

No. A person already party to a civil marriage cannot enter into a customary marriage

4
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Is there a limit on the number of customary marriages a husband may enter into?

No, but a court order regulating the future matrimonial property system must be obtained before entering into a further customary marriage.

5
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According to the Marriage Act, between whom may a civil marriage be concluded?

Between a man and a woman.

6
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What consent is required if a person is under 18 years old?

Consent of the parents or guardians.

7
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Who must solemnize a marriage for it to be valid?

A legally appointed or authorized marriage officer.

8
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Under what circumstances is the Minister of Home Affairs' consent required?

In certain circumstances provided for in Section 26(1) of the Marriage Act.

9
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What happens if parents or the Minister refuse consent to a marriage?

The High Court, as upper guardian, may grant consent before a valid marriage can be entered into.

10
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What is the age of majority according to Section 17 of the Children's Act 38 of 2005?

18 years.

11
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Where must a marriage ceremony generally be conducted according to Section 29(2) of the Marriage Act?

In a building with open doors.

12
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Which case relaxed the strict requirement that a marriage ceremony be held in a building with open doors?

Ex parte Dow.

13
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What were the facts in Ex parte Dow

The marriage ceremony was held in the front garden of a private home instead of inside the house.

14
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What did the court decide in Ex parte Dow?

The marriage was valid despite non-compliance with the requirement that it be held in a building with open doors

15
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Why did the court in Ex parte Dow uphold the marriage?

Because the legislature did not intend non-compliance with the formal requirements to result automatically in nullity.

16
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VALID CIVIL MARRIAGE

  • C = Consent (parents/guardian if under 18)

  • A = Authorized marriage officer

  • P = Parties (man and woman under the Marriage Act)

  • M = Minister's consent where required

  • O = Open-door building requirement (subject to Ex parte Dow exception)