Dr Samantha Smith is STBB's chief content writer and legal editor. She graduated with a BSocSci, LLB, LLM, and PhD (Law) from the University of Cape Town. Skilled in socio-legal analysis, critical thinking, and creative and technical writing, she previously worked in investigative legal research, with a special focus on animal law and environmental policy. In her current role, Samantha handles all STBB content, including all social media, newsflashes, newsletters, articles and advertisements for publication in magazines and online portals, tenders and proposals, legal updates and presentations, webinar and podcast write-ups, biographies, brochures, information sheets, content for special projects, and various other digital publications.

Pulse | April 2025

In focus | Martin Bey: Incomparably skilled litigator & dispute resolution expert

With a reputation for precision, no-nonsense communication, and an ability to manoeuvre complex and high-stakes civil matters with ease, Martin Bey has built a career defined by results and a commitment to excellence.

As a long-standing Director and highly respected legal practitioner, his expansive expertise includes, but is not limited to commercial litigation, construction disputes, property, planning, and sectional title litigation, admiralty and maritime law, and liquidation and insolvency enquiries. Additionally, Martin’s impressive legal acumen encompasses alternative dispute resolution, including extensive experience in arbitration.

Skilled in strategic negotiation, analytical thinking, and legal drafting, Martin’s nearly three decades of post-qualification experience has positioned him as a trusted and knowledgeable expert in the litigation and dispute resolution arena. Above all, his passion for the law and reputation for exceptional legal service make him an indispensable asset to STBB – and an Attorney everyone needs in their corner.

For unrivalled legal expertise, contact our litigation and dispute resolution specialist today.

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Watershed directive: Mandatory mediation for Gauteng civil cases proposed

In response to unmanageable caseloads, the Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa (‘the Gauteng Division’) recently published a draft directive introducing mandatory mediation as a requirement for setting down civil matters for trial. At its core, the draft directive aims to modernise and facilitate the administration of justice.

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Missing in action: How do I sue someone whose whereabouts are unknown?

At STBB, our litigation and dispute resolution specialists have the skill and expertise to pursue complex and extensive claims. Indeed, our litigators have often handled matters where a client intends to institute legal proceedings against an individual who has failed to timeously make payment under a contract, but quickly discovers that the impugned debtor’s whereabouts are unknown. Rest assured, South African law makes provision for these instances.

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Expand your knowledge with STBB’s litigation and dispute resolution-focused webinars

STBB’s Legally Speaking YouTube channel is your go-to platform for expert-led discussions and practical guidance on topical issues across a range of legal disciplines, including litigation and dispute resolution.

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Hiding assets: Trusts, divorce, and deemed property

In this month’s concise but highly informative podcast episode, Director, family law specialist, and litigator, Shirné Grobler, explores pertinent trust-related enquiries in the context of divorce. In a bid to preserve one’s wealth, can a spouse transfer funds into a family trust prior to instituting divorce proceedings? In which instances will a trust be deemed to be operating as a spouse’s ‘alter ego’? Crucially, can the other spouse approach a court for interdictory relief? Tune in now for expert legal guidance!

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Arbitration vs mediation: Clarifying the distinction

Against the backdrop of severe court backlogs, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration and mediation, have emerged as increasingly popular alternatives to traditional litigation. These mechanisms, while broadly similar in purpose, are distinct in process and outcome.

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Lacing up for change: STBB Claremont steps out for water relief

In celebration of World Water Day on 22nd March, STBB Claremont – well-known for their cohesion and team spirit – proudly walked 6km in solidarity with women and children in rural South African villages who are required to walk this distance every day to collect water for their families. Crucially, the funds raised from the walk will support Relate Water’s groundbreaking initiative to bring clean, running tap water to Iglington Malwana Village in Mpumalanga through the installation of solar-powered water systems.

To learn more about this terrific initiative or to get involved, visit their website.

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