THOUGHT OF THE WEEK Thinking of eloping or hosting a destination wedding?

Eloping or having a ‘wedding for two’ are on the increase and for many it is now the preferred choice. What’s not to love about saying your “I do’s” before a select few on the white sand beaches of Mauritius whilst saving some bucks by incorporating your wedding and honeymoon into the stuff dreams are made of … but is the happy couple aware of the legal consequences of a marriage concluded outside South Africa?

The question whether the couple is legally married, in Mauritius or any other country, depends on whether the marriage procedure of that country was correctly executed and celebrated. But, if their home is still in South Africa, the patrimonial consequences will be determined by South African law and they will be considered married in community of property to each other by default, unless a prenuptial agreement was concluded before the wedding.

Don’t forget to speak to your attorney before you tie the knot!