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Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

The previous lawyer who dealt with my father's estate refuses to return money owed to us. What can we do?

You can lay a complaint with the Legal Practice Council.

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Can I be fired for smoking weed at home?

It's legal to smoke at home, but employers are allowed to regulate possession and use of dagga by employees.

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If a bank messes up and customers lose money, does the bank have to refund them even if they don't complain?

The Ombudsman for Banking Services has indicated that banks must rectify errors that result in losses to customers.

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How can I replace my matric certificate if it has been lost?

You can apply online to replace your lost or damaged certificate issued by Umalusi.

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Do I lose my UIF unemployment benefits if I claim sickness benefits?

Each time you claim benefits, the UIF cycle stops and then starts again when you return to work and resume paying UIF contributions.

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When can SA Express employees expect to be paid their outstanding monies after the airline's liquidation in 2020?

Workers only receive outstanding payments once all secured creditors of the airline have been paid. This usually takes about 6 to 24 months.

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Do I need to apply for condonation if the respondent and I both filed our affidavits late and my lawyer withdrew from the case?

Only if the respondent objects to your late filing. I suggest approaching the court for condonation anyway.

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How can I restore my South African citizenship after it was withdrawn by the government when I left the country?

Wait for the judgment to be confirmed then go to the South African Embassy with supporting documents listed below.

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How can I access unclaimed money from my late father's bank account?

You cannot access your father's deceased estate, including his bank account, without permission from the Master of the High Court.

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What rights does a person with the power of attorney have over the rental of a house when the house owner dies while overseas?

All powers of attorney lapse when the owner dies.

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