Jeff Bloch & Associates Incorporate

Getting you the best possible outcome is our highest priority

About us

Jeff Bloch & Associates was incorporated in 2015, and previously traded as a sole proprietorship from 2003 to 2015. Our Dedicated Team of staff will work speedily to ensure your legal matter is dealt with Professionally.

Photo of Jeff Bloch

Jeff Bloch
Director

Jeff completed his Articles at Woodroffe and Kleyn, where he gained experience in all areas of law. He was admitted as an attorney in 1988.

Our services

RAF Claims

RAF Claims

  1. Loss of Support: When a breadwinner is deceased in a motor collision and has dependents, such as a wife or children who relied on him for financial support.
  2. General Damages: This is compensation for pain, suffering, scarring and disfigurement, disability and loss of the amenities of life. To obtain general damages you must prove that you have suffered a so-called serious injury in terms of the Provisions of the Road Accident Fund Act and its Regulation. You must be 30% WPI (Whole Person Impaired) in terms of the American Medical Association Guidelines. This will be ascertained by our medical specialist. No compensation is paid in respect of minor injuries.
  3. Future Medical Expenses: If it is anticipated that as a result of injuries sustained in a motor collision, you will require treatment in the future, these are claimable.
  4. Past medical and hospital expenses: If you have incurred such expenses as a result of an injury sustained in a motor collision, the RAF will compensate you. Invoices must be produced.
  5. Loss of Earnings: If you have suffered a loss of earnings as a result of an injury, the RAF will compensate you for that provided you have reasonable proof, usually in the form of pay slips and a Certificate from your employer.

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Motor Collision Litigation

Motor Collision Litigation

We act for both individuals and insurance companies where a vehicle has been involved in a motor collision, and you wish to claim your repair costs or vehicle replacement costs (in the event of a write off) from the party that caused the collision (the third party).

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Insurance Litigation

Insurance Litigation

This would cover claims arising from an insurance, eg. An insured event such as a fire, theft or death where your insurer repudiates your claim and wont pay out.

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Magistrate Court Litigation

Magistrate Court Litigation

The Magistrate’s Court jurisdiction for disputes and claims is between R15 000,00 and R400 000,00. Disputes falling within these parameters are litigated in the Magistrate’s Court.

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High Court Litigation

High Court Litigation

This covers claims or disputes which have a value of over R400 000,00.

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Correspondents (Agency Work)

Correspondents (Agency Work)

We act as local correspondent attorneys of record for Attorneys in other jurisdiction that require a local attorney. We appear and can act in the following Magistrate’s Court In KZN.

  1. Durban Magistrate’s Court
  2. Pinetown Magistrate’s Court
  3. Verulam Magistrate’s Court
  4. Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court
  5. Ntuzuma Magistrate’s Court

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Debt collections

Debt collections

We specialize in various types of debt collections, such as Body Corporate Levy collections, ejectments, rental collections, unpaid debt collections of all types.

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Contracts and agreements

Contracts and agreements

This include drafting of various types of agreements.

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Deceased Estates

Deceased Estates

This involves the administration of a deceased estate on behalf of an executor or if there is no will appointing an executor, the next of kin, who appoint us as his/her agent to do so. Our fees are negotiable and competitive in this regard.

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Personal injury

Personal injury

This covers events such as slip and fall resulting in an injury, dog bites, assaults and the like where you have been injured either as a result of negligence by the owner of premises or deliberately injured by someone.

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Medical Negligence

Medical Negligence

If you have suffered injury as a result of negligence by a doctor, hospital or their staff in the course of their duty

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FAQs

What is a deceased estate and when is it necessary to open one?

A deceased estate is the property and assets of a person who has died. In South Africa, it is necessary to open a deceased estate when the value of the estate exceeds R250,000, or if the person who died owned any immovable property (such as a house or land), regardless of the value of the estate.

Opening a deceased estate involves a legal process, which includes the appointment of an executor to administer the estate. The executor is responsible for gathering all the assets of the estate, paying any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the heirs in accordance with the deceased's will or in terms of the Intestate Succession Act if there is no will.

The process of opening a deceased estate can be complex and time-consuming, and it is important to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in deceased estates to guide you through the process. A lawyer can assist with the drafting of the necessary legal documents, advise on the tax implications of the estate, and ensure that the estate is administered in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.

What happens to a deceased person's assets if they die without a will?

If a person dies without a will in South Africa, their assets will be distributed in accordance with the rules set out in the Intestate Succession Act.

Under the Act, the deceased person's assets will be distributed to their surviving spouse or partners and children in specific proportions, depending on the number of surviving spouses or partners, and the number of children. If there is no surviving spouse, partner, or children, the assets will be distributed to the deceased person's parents, siblings, and other close relatives in a specific order.

It is important to note that the distribution of assets under the Intestate Succession Act may not align with the deceased person's wishes. This is why it is important to have a valid will in place, which can specify how the assets should be distributed.

If there is no valid will and the estate is intestate, it will be necessary to open a deceased estate and appoint an executor to administer the estate. The executor will be responsible for gathering all the assets of the estate, paying any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the heirs in accordance with the Intestate Succession Act.

How do I go about opening a deceased estate?

To open a deceased estate in South Africa, the following steps need to be taken:

  1. Obtain a death certificate: The first step is to obtain a death certificate from the Department of Home Affairs.
  2. Determine if there is a will: If there is a will, it should be located and submitted to the Master of the High Court, along with the death certificate.
  3. Choose an executor: The Master of the High Court will appoint an executor to administer the estate. If there is a will, the executor will be the person named in the will. If there is no will, the Master of the High Court will appoint a family member or a professional executor.
  4. Advertise the estate: The executor must advertise the estate in the Government Gazette and in a local newspaper, to allow any potential creditors to come forward.
  5. Gather information about the assets and debts: The executor must gather information about the deceased person's assets and debts. This may include bank accounts, property, investments, and any outstanding debts.
  6. Apply for letters of executorship: The executor must apply for letters of executorship from the Master of the High Court. This document gives the executor the legal authority to administer the estate.
  7. Administer the estate: The executor is responsible for gathering all the assets of the estate, paying any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the heirs in accordance with the will or the Intestate Succession Act.

It is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in deceased estates to guide you through the process and ensure that the estate is administered in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.

What happens during the administration of a deceased estate?

The administration of a deceased estate in South Africa involves the following steps:

  1. Reporting the estate to the Master of the High Court: The executor must report the estate to the Master of the High Court within 14 days of being appointed. This involves submitting the necessary documents, including the death certificate, the will (if there is one), and the inventory of the assets and liabilities of the estate.
  2. Advertisements: The executor must place advertisements in the Government Gazette and a local newspaper, notifying any creditors of the estate to come forward.
  3. Gathering and securing the assets: The executor must identify, collect, and secure all assets of the estate, which may include bank accounts, investments, and property.
  4. Paying the estate's debts: The executor must identify and pay all debts owed by the deceased person, including funeral expenses, taxes, and any outstanding loans or credit card debts.
  5. Distributing the estate: Once all the debts of the estate have been paid, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries in accordance with the will or the Intestate Succession Act. This involves preparing the necessary documents and transferring the assets to the beneficiaries.
  6. Finalising the estate: The executor must prepare a final statement of the administration of the estate, which includes a detailed account of all the assets and liabilities, the payments made, and the distribution of the assets. The executor must submit this statement to the Master of the High Court for approval.

The administration of a deceased estate can be a complex and time-consuming process, and it is important to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in deceased estates to guide you through the process and ensure that the estate is administered in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations.

How long does the process of administering a deceased estate typically take in South Africa?

The process of administering a deceased estate in South Africa can vary in duration and can depend on various factors, including the complexity of the estate, the number of assets and liabilities, and whether there are any disputes among beneficiaries or creditors.

In general, the administration of a deceased estate can take between 12 months to 3 years or longer. The process involves various steps, including advertising the estate to allow creditors to come forward, gathering and securing the assets, paying the estate's debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries. This can be a complex and time-consuming process that requires the attention and assistance of an experienced lawyer who specialises in deceased estates.

It is important to note that the process can be delayed if there are disputes or challenges to the estate or if the executor encounters any legal or administrative obstacles. To ensure a smooth and efficient administration of a deceased estate, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a lawyer who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

What fees are involved in the administration of a deceased estate?

There are several fees involved in the administration of a deceased estate in South Africa, including:

  1. Executor's fee: The executor of the estate is entitled to a fee for their services, which is usually calculated as a percentage of the value of the estate. The executor's fee is subject to negotiation and must be approved by the Master of the High Court.
  2. Advertising fee: The executor is required to place advertisements in the Government Gazette and a local newspaper, notifying creditors of the estate to come forward. The cost of these advertisements is typically borne by the estate.
  3. Legal fees: If the executor requires legal assistance to administer the estate, they may engage the services of a lawyer, whose fees will be borne by the estate.
  4. Transfer costs: If any property needs to be transferred to the beneficiaries, transfer costs will be incurred, including conveyancing fees and transfer duty.
  5. Tax fees: If the estate earns income during the administration period, it may be subject to tax, and the executor will need to file tax returns and pay any tax owed.

It is important to note that the fees involved in the administration of a deceased estate can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, and it is advisable to consult with a lawyer who specialises in deceased estates to obtain a clear understanding of the costs involved.

What are the responsibilities of an executor of a deceased estate?

The executor of a deceased estate in South Africa has various responsibilities, including:

  1. Attending the deceased's funeral: The executor may need to make arrangements for the deceased's funeral and pay for the funeral expenses from the estate.
  2. Identifying and gathering the assets: The executor must identify and gather all the assets of the deceased, including property, investments, bank accounts, and personal belongings.
  3. Securing the assets: The executor must ensure that all the assets are secured and protected until they can be distributed to the beneficiaries.
  4. Settling the debts: The executor must pay all the debts owed by the deceased, including funeral expenses, outstanding bills, and any taxes owed.
  5. Distributing the assets: Once all the debts have been settled, the executor must distribute the remaining assets of the estate to the beneficiaries according to the deceased's will or in terms of the Intestate Succession Act if there is no will.
  6. Filing and paying taxes: The executor must file the deceased's tax returns and pay any tax owed to the South African Revenue Service.
  7. Keeping proper records: The executor must keep accurate records of all the transactions and dealings relating to the estate.
  8. Reporting to the Master of the High Court: The executor must provide regular reports to the Master of the High Court on the progress of the administration of the estate.

It is important to note that the executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and to administer the estate in a responsible and transparent manner. The executor may be held personally liable for any losses incurred by the estate as a result of their negligence or misconduct. Therefore, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in deceased estates to ensure that the executor's responsibilities are properly fulfilled.

Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in the case being dismissed by the court. So, it is crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations and act accordingly to protect your legal rights.

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How is fault determined in a motor collision lawsuit?

Fault in a motor collision lawsuit is determined by investigating the circumstances of the accident and identifying the party or parties responsible for causing the collision. Typically, fault is determined by analyzing the evidence presented by both parties, including police reports, witness statements, physical evidence, and expert opinions.

The investigation will consider factors such as the speed of the vehicles, the condition of the road, the weather, the driver's behavior, and any other relevant factors that may have contributed to the accident. In most cases, the party found to be negligent or at fault will be responsible for paying damages to the other party or parties involved in the accident.

It is important to note that fault may be assigned in different degrees or percentages, depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. In some cases, multiple parties may be found to be at fault for the accident, and fault may be divided between them. An experienced attorney can help you understand how fault may be determined in your specific case.

What is insurance litigation?

Insurance litigation is the process of resolving disputes between insurance policyholders and their insurance companies through legal action. Insurance litigation typically arises when an insurance company denies a claim, fails to provide coverage, or disputes the amount of damages that are owed to the policyholder.

Insurance litigation can involve a variety of legal claims, including breach of contract, bad faith, fraud, or misrepresentation. The goal of insurance litigation is to seek a resolution to the dispute, either through a settlement agreement or a court judgment.

Insurance litigation can be complex and time-consuming, requiring extensive legal knowledge and experience. For this reason, it is often advisable to hire an experienced insurance attorney to represent you in an insurance litigation case. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to help you obtain a fair resolution to your dispute.

What types of insurance disputes can lead to litigation?

There are several types of insurance disputes that can lead to litigation. Some common examples include:

  1. Coverage disputes: These occur when an insurance company denies coverage or fails to provide the coverage promised in the policy.
  2. Bad faith claims: These occur when an insurance company acts in bad faith by unreasonably denying a valid claim, failing to investigate a claim, or delaying payment.
  3. Subrogation claims: These occur when an insurance company seeks to recover damages from a third party who is responsible for an insured loss.
  4. Property damage claims: These occur when an insurance company disputes the amount of damages owed for property damage, such as damage to a home or vehicle.
  5. Personal injury claims: These occur when an insurance company disputes the amount of damages owed for personal injury, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  6. Disability claims: These occur when an insurance company disputes a claim for disability benefits, such as long-term disability insurance or Social Security Disability benefits.

It's worth noting that insurance disputes can arise from any type of insurance policy, including auto insurance, homeowner's insurance, life insurance, health insurance, and disability insurance, among others.

How do I file an insurance lawsuit?

If you need to file an insurance lawsuit, the following are the general steps you should take:

  1. Contact your insurance company: Before filing a lawsuit, try to resolve the dispute through direct communication with your insurance company. Be sure to keep copies of all correspondence, including letters, emails, and phone calls.
  2. Gather evidence: Collect all relevant documents related to your claim, including the insurance policy, any correspondence with the insurance company, medical bills, repair estimates, and police reports. You should also take photographs of any damage or injuries.
  3. Consult with an attorney: It is recommended that you hire an experienced insurance attorney to help you understand your legal rights and options. An attorney can also help you to prepare your case and represent you in court if necessary.
  4. File a complaint: Your attorney can help you to file a complaint in court, which will outline the facts of the case and the relief you are seeking.
  5. Serve the complaint: You must serve the complaint on the insurance company and any other parties involved in the lawsuit. Your attorney can help you with this process.
  6. Discovery: After the complaint is filed, both parties will have an opportunity to engage in discovery, which involves exchanging evidence and information related to the case.
  7. Negotiate a settlement: In many cases, insurance lawsuits are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties. Your attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
  8. Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court and present evidence and arguments on your behalf.

It is important to note that the specific procedures and requirements for filing an insurance lawsuit may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of your case.

What is the role of an insurance attorney in a litigation case?

An insurance attorney plays a crucial role in an insurance litigation case. The attorney's primary role is to advocate for the rights and interests of their client, the policyholder. Here are some specific tasks an insurance attorney may undertake in an insurance litigation case:

  1. Assess the validity of the claim: An experienced insurance attorney can assess the validity of the claim and determine the best legal course of action.
  2. Investigate the claim: The attorney can investigate the claim to determine if there is sufficient evidence to support the claim and whether the insurance company acted in bad faith.
  3. Represent the policyholder: An insurance attorney will represent the policyholder throughout the litigation process, including in court appearances, negotiations, and settlement discussions.
  4. Provide legal advice: An insurance attorney can provide legal advice to the policyholder throughout the litigation process, including advising on the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and the potential risks and benefits of settlement or trial.
  5. Prepare and file legal documents: An attorney can prepare and file the necessary legal documents, including complaints, motions, and other pleadings, on behalf of the policyholder.
  6. Negotiate with the insurance company: An insurance attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of the policyholder to reach a settlement or resolve the dispute.
  7. Advocate at trial: If necessary, an insurance attorney can advocate for the policyholder in court, presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and making legal arguments to the judge.

Overall, an experienced insurance attorney can help guide the policyholder through the complex and often confusing insurance litigation process, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their losses.

How long does an insurance litigation case typically take to resolve?

The length of an insurance litigation case can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of the case, including the type of insurance, the complexity of the legal issues, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate a settlement. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of weeks, while others may take years to reach a resolution.

Factors that can impact the length of an insurance litigation case include:

  1. Discovery process: The discovery process, which involves gathering and exchanging evidence, can be time-consuming, particularly if there are disputes over the production of documents or other discovery issues.
  2. Motion practice: Either party may file various motions during the course of the litigation, such as a motion for summary judgment, which can add time to the process.
  3. Negotiations: Settlement negotiations can take time, particularly if there are multiple parties involved or if there are disputes over the amount of damages owed.
  4. Trial: If the case goes to trial, the length of the trial and the availability of the court and the parties' attorneys can impact how long the case takes to resolve.

In general, insurance litigation cases tend to take longer than other types of civil litigation because of the complexity of the issues involved and the often contentious nature of the disputes. It's important to have realistic expectations about the timeline for your case and to work closely with an experienced insurance attorney who can help guide you through the process.

How long does a court litigation case typically take to resolve?

The length of time it takes to resolve a court litigation case can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, and the court and jurisdiction in which the case is being heard. Some cases may be resolved relatively quickly, while others may drag on for months or even years.

In general, a typical court litigation case can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, depending on the circumstances. For example, a straightforward breach of contract case may be resolved within a few months, while a complex business dispute involving multiple parties and a large amount of evidence may take several years to litigate.

There are several stages in the litigation process that can affect the length of time it takes to resolve a case. These include the discovery process, pre-trial motions, and trial itself. Additionally, the parties involved in the case may engage in settlement negotiations at various stages of the litigation, which can either speed up or slow down the process.

Overall, it's difficult to predict with certainty how long a court litigation case will take to resolve. However, an experienced attorney can help advise you on the likely timeline for your case and develop a legal strategy that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

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What are some examples of medical negligence?

Medical negligence can take many forms, including misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors, birth injuries, and failure to diagnose a condition in a timely manner.

How can I prove medical negligence?

To prove medical negligence, you must show that a healthcare professional failed to provide the appropriate standard of care and that this failure caused harm to the patient. This typically requires expert testimony from a qualified medical expert who can testify as to what the appropriate standard of care would have been in the given circumstances.

What damages can I recover in a medical negligence case?

If you are successful in a medical negligence case, you may be able to recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. The specific damages that you may be able to recover will depend on the facts of your case.

Do I need an attorney for a medical negligence case?

While it is possible to pursue a medical negligence case on your own, it is generally advisable to hire an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal and medical issues involved in these cases. An attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

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What is the Road Accident Fund (RAF)?

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is a statutory body established in terms of South Africa's Road Accident Fund Act. Its primary purpose is to provide compensation to individuals who have been injured or killed as a result of a motor vehicle accident. The RAF is funded by a fuel levy imposed on petrol and diesel in South Africa. The compensation provided by the RAF includes medical expenses, loss of income, and general damages. The RAF provides compensation to both drivers and passengers involved in accidents, as well as to pedestrians and cyclists who are injured or killed by motor vehicles.

What types of damages can I claim from the RAF?

In South Africa, you can claim various types of damages from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident. These damages include:

  1. Past and future medical expenses related to the accident, including hospitalisation costs, medication, and rehabilitation fees.
  2. Loss of income or support if you are unable to work as a result of the accident.
  3. Funeral expenses if a loved one died in the accident.
  4. General damages for pain, shock  and suffering, scarring and disfigurement ,emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  5. Loss of support if a breadwinner in your family died in the accident and you were dependent on them for financial support.
  6. Damages for future medical treatment or care you may require as a result of the accident.
  7. Damages for loss of earning capacity if you are unable to work in the future due to the injuries sustained in the accident.
  8. Damages for loss of amenities of life, such as loss of mobility, disfigurement, or scarring.

It is important to note that the damages you can claim may depend on the specific circumstances of your case and the extent of your injuries. We can provide more detailed information and guidance on the types of damages you may be able to claim.

It is important to note that the claims process with the RAF can be complex and time-consuming. It is very difficult to do on your own and far better  to consult with a lawyer who specialises in RAF claims to assist you.

What is the time limit for lodging a claim with the RAF?

In South Africa, the time limit for lodging a claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF) depends on the specific circumstances of your case. Generally, there are two time limits to be aware of:

  1. Claim lodgement: You must lodge your claim with the RAF within three years from the date of the accident, or two years if the owner or driver is unidentified, a so called ‘’Hit and Run’’.
  2. Prescription: If you do not lodge your claim within the time period , your claim may become "prescribed", which means that you may lose your right to claim compensation from the RAF.

There are some exceptions to the three-year time limit, such as if you were a minor at the time of the accident . In these cases, the time limit may be extended.

It is important to note that it is always advisable to lodge your claim as soon as possible after the accident to ensure that you have enough time to gather the necessary evidence and documentation to support your claim. If you are unsure about the time limit that applies to your case, you should consult with a lawyer who specialises in RAF claims.

How much compensation can I expect to receive from the RAF?

The amount of compensation that you may receive from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa will depend on a number of factors, including the nature and extent of your injuries, the financial losses you have suffered, and the circumstances of the accident.

In general, the amount of compensation that you can expect to receive from the RAF will depend on the severity of your injuries and the extent of your financial losses. In cases where the injuries are severe and have a significant impact on your quality of life, you may be entitled to substantial compensation.

It is important to note that the claims process with the RAF can be complex, and it is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in RAF claims to guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. A lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence and documentation, communicate with the RAF on your behalf, and ensure that your claim is processed as efficiently as possible.

What happens if the person who was injured in the accident dies before the claim is resolved?

If a person who was injured in an accident dies before their claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF) is resolved in South Africa, their claim may be continued by their dependents or heirs, under certain circumstances.

In cases where the person who died was the sole breadwinner of their family, their dependents may be entitled to claim for loss of support. This can include loss of income, loss of financial support, and loss of household services. In cases where the person who died was not the sole breadwinner, their dependents may still be entitled to claim for loss of support, but the amount of compensation may be lower.

It is important to note that the claims process with the RAF can be complex, and it is advisable to seek the assistance of a lawyer who specialises in RAF claims to guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. A lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence and documentation, communicate with the RAF on your behalf, and ensure that your claim is processed as efficiently as possible, even in the event of a claimant's death.

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E301B Hampden Court
7 Hampden Road
Morningside
Durban
South Africa, 4001

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    Jeff Bloch & Associates Incorporate
    Jeff Bloch & Associates Incorporate

    Jeff Bloch & Associates was incorporated in 2015, and previously traded as a sole proprietorship from 2003 to 2015.

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