Child
In South African family-law and children's-rights context, a child is generally a person under 18 years of age.
Definition
The term child is central to family law, maintenance, parenting, care and contact, guardianship, domestic violence, Children's Court, adoption, and child-protection processes. Legal decisions involving a child usually need a careful review of age, care arrangements, safety, schooling, health, support, family relationships, and best interests.
Key takeaways
In South African family-law and children's-rights context, a child is generally a person under 18 years of age.
Family Law
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Related legal problems
This glossary provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Common situations
Child maintenance
Parenting dispute
Care and contact
Related resources
Resources and guides
Divorce Checklist
Preparation checklist for divorce process, settlement, parenting, and maintenance issues.
Family LawChecklistParenting Plan Question Checklist
Prepare parenting-plan questions by organising child routines, care and contact arrangements, school and medical decisions, holidays, communication rules, safety concerns, documents, and lawyer questions.
Family LawFAQs
Child FAQs
What does Child mean?
In South African family-law and children's-rights context, a child is generally a person under 18 years of age.
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