Trusts remain a valuable estate planning and asset protection tool, but they also carry ongoing compliance obligations. Many trustees assume that a dormant trust with no income, assets, or activity can simply be left alone. SARS has made it clear that inactivity does not remove a trust’s compliance obligations. With penalties now being imposed for outstanding trust returns, dormant trusts may be attracting more attention than their trustees realise.
“Externally, trustees cannot disagree. In the external sphere the Trust functions by virtue of its resolutions, which have to be supported by the full complement of the Trust body.” (Extract from judgment below) A recent Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) judgment provides yet another reminder to tread carefully when contracting with trusts. Your agreements with…
Originally from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape, Wandile studied law through the University of South Africa before joining DMF’s Litigation Department as a Candidate Legal Practitioner.
Inspired by a strong sense of fairness and a desire to help others, Wandile was drawn to the legal profession because of the impact it can have on people’s lives. He enjoys the challenge of critical thinking and problem-solving, and values the opportunity to assist clients in navigating complex legal matters while working towards practical solutions.
Drawn to litigation by its dynamic nature, Wandile is committed to developing his skills and building a career founded on professionalism, integrity and service excellence. He particularly enjoys the satisfaction that comes from helping clients move forward with confidence during difficult or uncertain circumstances.
Outside the office, Wandile enjoys spending time outdoors and embraces opportunities for new experiences and adventure. A talented painter with a love for animals, he shares his home with two dogs, 35 chickens and two ducks. His personal motto, “What you’re not changing, you’re choosing,” reflects his proactive approach to both life and work.
Jennifer’s passion for law stems from a deep desire to help others. Driven by a commitment to assisting those less fortunate, she saw the legal profession as an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives while advocating for fair and positive outcomes.
Jennifer approaches her work with enthusiasm, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. She believes that passion and perseverance are essential qualities for success in the legal profession and finds great satisfaction in helping clients navigate challenges and achieve successful resolutions. For her, one of the most rewarding aspects of the job is seeing the relief and excitement clients experience when a matter is successfully concluded.
Jennifer credits much of her drive and resilience to her late mother, who remains her greatest role model. She taught Jennifer that with dedication and hard work, any goal can be achieved regardless of the obstacles along the way.
Outside the office, Jennifer is an adventurer at heart who enjoys the outdoors, spending time with friends, and embracing new experiences. A natural go-getter, she is always ready for the next challenge and believes that growth comes from continually stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
For André, becoming an attorney was about more than practising law. He was drawn to the profession by a desire to help people navigate important decisions, solve problems, and achieve meaningful outcomes during significant moments in their lives.
After completing his legal studies, André was admitted as an Attorney of the High Court in 2016. He later qualified as a Conveyancer in 2020 and as a Notary Public in 2021, expanding his ability to assist clients across a broad range of property and commercial matters.
With a strong focus on conveyancing, André enjoys being part of the journey that helps individuals and families achieve their property ownership goals. He understands that property transactions are often among the most important financial decisions people will make and believes that every client deserves clear guidance, practical advice, and professional support throughout the process.
As a Notary, André values the trust placed in him to formalise important agreements and ensure legal processes are handled accurately and efficiently. His meticulous attention to detail, transparent communication style, and commitment to service have earned him a reputation for delivering dependable and client-focused solutions.
Outside the office, André values balance, family, and meaningful connections. Whether spending time with loved ones, enjoying the outdoors, sharing a good meal, or simply appreciating life’s quieter moments, he believes that staying grounded is essential to both personal wellbeing and professional success.
Known for his approachable nature and calm professionalism, André finds fulfilment in helping clients move from uncertainty to clarity and confidently navigate some of life’s most important milestones.