The Constitution in plain English — rights that affect your court matter

The Constitution is the highest law in South Africa. Every court rule, statute, and government decision must align with it. For self-represented litigants, four chapters matter most.

Section 9 — Equality

No one may be unfairly discriminated against. In maintenance and family matters, this underpins equal parental responsibility. In dismissal cases, automatically unfair discrimination (LRA s.187) triggers Labour Court jurisdiction.

Section 10 — Dignity

Courts must treat you with dignity even when you are not represented. Registrars may assist with procedure (not legal advice). Humiliation or bias by officials can be raised on record.

Section 28 — Children

• A child's best interests are paramount in every matter concerning the child.
• Maintenance, care, contact, and divorce parenting plans must centre the child — not the parents' conflict.
• Children 18 and older are not minors for parenting-plan purposes in divorce.

Section 34 — Access to courts

This is your anchor: disputes must be capable of resolution by law, in a fair hearing. Cost cannot be an absolute barrier — that is why Maintenance Court, CCMA, and Small Claims exist at lower cost.