Bertus Preller Family Law and Divorce Lawyer
Bertus Preller is a preeminent figure in South African family and divorce law, renowned as the author of two acclaimed books: "Everyone's Guide to Divorce and Separation," published by Random House, and "The Unexpected Counsellor" that is available on Takealot and Amazon. Admitted as an attorney in 1989 after studying at the University of the Free State and the University of Johannesburg, Bertus has built an illustrious career, appearing in landmark cases across the Constitutional Court, High Court, and Magistrates Courts nationwide. Since 1996, he has honed his skills as a mediator and arbitrator, serving as a Part-time Commissioner at the CCMA and an Appeals Authority for the South African Police Services. A pioneer in legal innovation, Bertus launched iDivorce in 2006—the first online DIY divorce platform in South Africa—reflecting his forward-thinking approach. He has received multiple accolades, including being named Family Lawyer of the Year in South Africa by ACQ5 Finance magazine in 2015 and Best Divorce Lawyer in South Africa by Business Times in 2023.
Bertus is a trusted authority frequently featured in major media outlets, including the Sunday Times, Business Times, Noseweek, Keur, and Women’s Health, as well as on SABC’s 3 Talk, Morning Live, CapeTalk, 702, and 5FM’s Breakfast Show. His diverse clientele includes artists, celebrities, athletes, and high-net-worth individuals, drawn to his client- and child-centered philosophy. He champions a compassionate, non-adversarial divorce process, ensuring resolutions prioritize family well-being.
Beyond law, Bertus is a professional photographer, having captured international rugby events like the HSBC Sevens Series and Test matches. This creative flair mirrors his innovative legal practice, where he blends expertise with out-of-the-box solutions.
Areas of Expertise
Notable Cases
An accredited FAMAC mediator, Bertus continues to shape family law in South Africa with his extensive experience, media presence, and commitment to innovative, family-focused solutions.
Bertus is a trusted authority frequently featured in major media outlets, including the Sunday Times, Business Times, Noseweek, Keur, and Women’s Health, as well as on SABC’s 3 Talk, Morning Live, CapeTalk, 702, and 5FM’s Breakfast Show. His diverse clientele includes artists, celebrities, athletes, and high-net-worth individuals, drawn to his client- and child-centered philosophy. He champions a compassionate, non-adversarial divorce process, ensuring resolutions prioritize family well-being.
Beyond law, Bertus is a professional photographer, having captured international rugby events like the HSBC Sevens Series and Test matches. This creative flair mirrors his innovative legal practice, where he blends expertise with out-of-the-box solutions.
Areas of Expertise
- Divorce and Family Law
- Divorce Mediation and Collaborative Law
- Parenting Plans and Child Custody (Care and Contact)
- Parental Responsibilities and Rights
- Same-Sex Marriages and Unmarried Fathers’ Rights
- Family Violence Interdicts
- International Child Abduction (Hague Convention)
- International Divorce Law
- Maintenance and Rule 43 Applications
- Cohabitation Law and Universal Partnerships
Notable Cases
- AA v LA [2013] ZAWCHC 168
- B v B [2018] ZAWCHC 171
- J v L [2019] ZAFSHC 225
- H M v L M [2020] ZAWCHC 24
- SACCAWU and Others v Irvin & Johnson Limited [2000] (3) SA 705; [2000] (8) BCLR 886
- E.W v V.H [2023] ZAWCHC 58
- Blue Dot Properties 391 (Pty) Ltd v H.G and Others [2023] ZAWCHC 269
- J.P.R.D v L.S.D [2023] ZAWCHC 296
- DR v NM and Another [2024] ZAWCHC 69
- DR v NM and Another [2024] ZAWCHC 165
- S.K v R.K [2024] ZAWCHC 162
- R.A v I.K (8953/2020) [2025] ZAWCHC 123 (19 March 2025)
An accredited FAMAC mediator, Bertus continues to shape family law in South Africa with his extensive experience, media presence, and commitment to innovative, family-focused solutions.
