Karen Olivier Just Family Law
A trusted family law practice in Durban
When life becomes complicated and the law becomes overwhelming, Durban Law Offices offers clear guidance and steady support. Led by senior attorney Karen Olivier, the practice focuses exclusively on family law, child rights and divorce matters.
The fact that you find yourself on this page probably reflects a place you never expected to find yourself. Our job is to ensure that you receive what is equitable and fair in order for you to move on and rebuild your life as quickly as possible.
We are the proud attorneys in the landmark reported judgment of ELM v LM (9360/2022P), delivered on 5 December 2025, in which the Court ordered a 40% redistribution following a 30-year marriage and confirmed the application of the universal partnership principle, consistent with the approach adopted in the Greyling judgment.
Clients often say the same thing about Karen.
She listens, she understands the real problem, and she gets things moving.
What we do
Karen Olivier and her team only handle matters that affect families, children and long-term wellbeing.
Every case is handled with respect, discretion and a strategy tailored to the individual.
Children’s Rights
For parents, guardians and families navigating complex child-related matters.
We can assist with:
- Defining or enforcing parental responsibilities and rights
- Care and contact arrangements
- Rights of unmarried fathers
- National and international child abduction
- Adoption and guardianship
- Parenting plans
- Contact and access disputes
- Relocation of minor children
Divorce Law
When your relationship ends, you need a clear plan rather than a confusing process.
We can assist with:
- Defended and undefended divorces
- Rule 43 interim maintenance applications
- Care, contact and financial arrangements
- Enforcement of contributions toward household and educational costs
- Universal partnerships and cohabitation breakdowns
- Fair contribution towards legal costs
- Long-term financial planning post divorce
Family Law
Planning for the future or protecting your circumstances.
We can assist with:
- Ante-nuptial contracts
- Variation of marital regimes
- Cohabitation and universal partnership agreements
- Same-sex marriages
- Domestic violence and harassment protection
- High Court interdicts
- Wills and estate matters
About Karen Olivier
Karen Olivier leads the practice with many years of experience in high-conflict and emotionally complex family matters.
Known for her steady manner and practical insight, she helps clients navigate difficult moments with confidence.
Her focus is always on:
- Fairness
- Clear communication
- Sound legal planning
- Protecting children’s best interests
- Reducing emotional and financial uncertainty for families
Clients often say the same thing about Karen. She listens, she understands the real problem, and she gets things moving.
Meet the team
Family law is personal. We treat it that way.
Our attorneys and support staff work together to ensure you are guided at every step. You will never be left guessing. You will always know the plan, the next action and the reasoning behind it.
What our clients have to say
EXCELLENT Based on 237 reviews Posted on Google Jodie SherarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellence there are no words to decribe the words and how i feel so happyPosted on Google Maliska MartensTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Divorce is not a easy thing, but from the moment I sat down with Karen Oliver she assured me that I am going to be ok and that they will guide me all the way. There where days that I felt overwhelmed and one phone call and I am in the office and the whole team would listen to me and I would walk out feeling 200% ready to face the process. Then came the day for court, I was not even nervous because I was in the hands of the Law Offices of Karen Oliver and her team. What she promised me on my first appointment was what I got in court. Thank you for giving me back my confidence and freedom. Regards MaliskaPosted on Google Wynand CronjeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional. I can not thank them enough. Excellent service.Posted on Google Christopher CrookTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I first visited the Law Offices of Karen Olivier in December 2024 feeling lost and overwhelmed. I did not understand what divorce involved and had many questions. Karen calmly explained everything in clear, simple terms and outlined the process ahead. After that first meeting, I knew I was in good hands. Throughout the process, she explained each step, kept me informed, and put my mind at ease until a settlement was reached. She is not only an excellent lawyer but also a genuinely caring person. I would recommend her firm to anyone in need of legal assistance.Posted on Google Deon joshuaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been to a few attorneys wrt my matter, and all of them just kept me going around in circles, not to mention the unnecessary expenses incurred with no positive result. It was when I engaged Karen's office that things started to move in the right direction and now finally resolved. A big thank you and your team, your office will undoubtedly receive many referrals from myself and my peers.Posted on Google Bianca RooseboomTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely incredible service, really felt the whole team found a way to be efficient and clear, but still took the time to hold me as an individual human, giving me a personal service that helped me feel safe and contained. Highly recommend themPosted on Google Luvuko MqaqaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They’re the best in the business 👌🏾Posted on Google noleen ReddyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Emotional Comfort is remains a priority in any home, hence through my support system, sought the services of processing my thoughts onto paper through a legal medium to re-affirm my current state of mind. I needed both clarity and validation for my current action to secure future stability. I never thought that, after 25 years of a relationship, followed by marriage, that a divorce will bring me this comfort I so urgently desire. I had always believed that marriage was to deliver that comfort and peace of mind, but it's quite the contrary. A friend of mine found the Legal Services within the Professional Practice of Karen Olivier on Google and suggested that I allow her organisation an opportunity to aid her in finding closure to my emotional unrest. I bravely took that plunge and my first step was to get to that first appointment on 07 April 2026 at 12:00pm. I arrived at Karen's office, knowing I was here before for some other reason, and even though anxious, felt relieved with every step that I took, heading closer to the door that will open up new horizons for a brighter future. This is all that I wanted. Deep within my heart, I knew that I would find soul comforting direction behind the door I was about to enter. It was a home within a home, and I knew that my heart and mind would be in trust worthy hands. The awesome service I received was overwhelming. Has I step into the next phase of my life I know I am in capable hands of Karen and her team of wonderful ladies . They put their heart and mind into their careers and treat you like family. Thank you Karen and your ladies for helping me through this journey of life .
Your rights deserve proper protection
If you are facing a family, marital or child-related dispute and need clear direction, Durban Law Offices can help you take the next step with confidence.
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