South Africa’s labour laws are some of the best in the world in that they provide ample protection for employees’ rights while maintaining a careful balance of fairness to ensure that employees don’t abuse employers either.
However, sometimes you still need a good lawyer to help you fight some of the more complex matters that may arise.
Labour Law Basics In South Africa
In South Africa, the main pieces of labour-related legislation that comprise labour law are the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act, Skills Development Act, Unemployment Insurance Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act. The Constitution and relevant case law also apply.
There are essentially three stages of dealing with labour issues, the first two of which don’t usually involve lawyers. Labour matters are usually dealt with internally by qualified human resources personnel. When internal processes fail to satisfy all parties, matters get referred to the Council for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA). If your labour dispute goes to the Labour Court, you will need legal representation, and having legal insurance in this case can be a lifesaver.
What Happens if I Get Dismissed?
For most South Africans, your job is your lifeline, and being dismissed can be devastating, especially if you are the sole breadwinner for your family. Being financially protected against dismissal can significantly save you from heartache and distress, allowing you to maintain your lifestyle while you search for new employment. A dismissal insurance policy usually means that you get a fixed payout in the event that you lose your job to ensure that you are not left stranded. While South African labour law seeks to protect workers by giving them a fair hearing before being dismissed, losing your job can still take you by surprise and is a huge blow to your financial security. If you feel you have been unfairly dismissed, your dismissal insurance can also support you while you seek legal advice.
How Can Workerslife Help?
As an employer, you may need a labour lawyer to give you sound advice when you’re faced with a labour law issue. However, legal services can be prohibitively expensive. Thankfully, you can have your rights protected by a quality lawyer for a small monthly fee. From as little as R140 per month, you can have access to professional legal counsel to assist you on a range of labour-related legal matters. With Workerslife Comprehensive Legal Insurance, you can be covered for legal matters up to the value of R150 000 per year. We also offer a Dismissal Protection Extension which is available to our policyholders who are members of POPCRU and employed within the country. This policy allows you to insure your income from as little as R1.65 per day so you remain protected in the case of dismissal.
Take control of your future now. If you are interested in acquiring comprehensive legal cover or dismissal protection, contact us at Workerslife today. For all labour matters, never feel alone again!