The Family Advocate mediates between the court and the relevant family, helping to resolve custody, guardianship and access issues. He or she is employed by the Department of Justice and is an Officer of the Court. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the Family Advocate will make a recommendation to the court in light of what he/she considers to be the best interests of the child.
The Office of the Family Advocate can only become involved if there is a matter pending either at the High Court or at the Central Divorce Court. The Family Advocate may hold an enquiry, even if not requested to, although he/she normally acts on the request of one of the parties to hold an enquiry. During the inquiry the Family Advocate is assisted by a Family Counsellor to interview the couple to ascertain their personal circumstances and other pertinent details. The children are also interviewed, which prevents them having to appear in Court.
In Cape Town the contact details for the family advocate are:
Tel: |
021-426 1216 |
Fax: |
021-426 1215 |
E-mail: |
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Postal Address: |
Private Bag X 9003 , Cape Town , 8000 |
Physical Address: |
55 Union Castle Building, 10th Floor, St George’s Mall, Cape Town |