The Definitive Guide For Attorneys In South Africa
The Definitive Guide For Attorneys In South Africa
At the heart of Manndi Schuld’s practice is the belief that a family in transition deserves more than just a legal representative; they deserve a compassionate partner who can navigate the storm with both strategy and soul. As a dedicated Family Law Specialist, Manndi has spent decades refining a practice that prioritises the human element of every dispute. She understands that behind every high-value divorce or complex parenting matter is a family seeking stability and a path forward. By combining her formidable legal intellect with deep emotional intelligence, Manndi ensures that her clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to make decisions that protect their future and the well-being of their children.
A Legacy of Strategic Insight
Admitted as an attorney in 1995, Manndi’s journey began in the rigorous arenas of criminal and commercial litigation, including the defence of complex white-collar crime. This early exposure to high-conflict dynamics and financial misconduct provided her with a unique "tactical lens" that she brought into the world of family law in 2006. Her background in trust law, asset protection, and estate planning allows her to navigate the financial complexities of high-net-worth divorces with a level of precision that few can match, ensuring that family wealth structures are understood and protected.
A Pioneer in Collaborative Divorce
Manndi is a true trailblazer in South African law, being one of only two attorneys in the country trained in the United States to practise the Collaborative Law model. In 2013, she initiated the first collaborative interdisciplinary divorce in South Africa—a milestone that transformed how families resolve conflict outside the courtroom. This approach, which integrates coaching and conflict resolution, allows for "Legal Peace" even in the most contentious circumstances. Her leadership has led to remarkable results, with 66% of the firm’s matters being settled and finalised within just six months, including those involving international relocation and cross-border jurisdiction.
Specialist in High-Conflict & International Matters
Manndi is particularly renowned for her ability to manage high-conflict family law matters that involve mental health challenges, addiction, or significant power imbalances. Her international training in coaching allows her to identify the underlying emotional drivers of a dispute, resolving matters more quickly and with greater stability for the family unit. From international child abduction matters to the vesting of parental rights and primary care disputes, she handles the most sensitive legal challenges with a steady hand and a commitment to transparency.
Beyond the Courtroom: Support for the Whole Family
Manndi’s dedication to her clients extends far beyond the finalisation of a court order. She facilitates effective co-parenting courses and hosts pre- and post-divorce retreats, helping parents transition successfully into their new roles. She provides direct personal oversight on every matter that enters her office, ensuring that no work leaves without her review. Her approach is grounded in absolute integrity; she provides clear, realistic advice—even when it is difficult to hear—to ensure her clients are always supported with honesty and professional care.
My Specialist Family Law Services
