Starting the child maintenance process in South Africa involves several steps:

1. Determine Your Eligibility: Ensure you have the right to claim maintenance for your child. This typically applies to custodial parents or guardians.
2. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect relevant documents such as:

• Child's birth certificate
• Proof of income (pay slips, bank statements)
• Details of the other parent (ID, contact information)

1. Attempt to Reach an Agreement: Before formal proceedings, try to reach an informal agreement with the other parent regarding maintenance. Document any agreed terms.
2. Visit the Maintenance Court: If no agreement can be reached, visit the nearest Maintenance Court. You can find your local court through the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development's website.
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the necessary application form for maintenance. This includes details about your financial situation and the needs of the child.
4. Submit Your Application: Submit the completed form and any supporting documents to the court. There may be a small fee involved.
5. Court Hearing: A maintenance officer will review the application, and a court date will be set for a hearing. Both parents will be required to attend.
6. Receive the Maintenance Order: If the court rules in your favor, you will receive a maintenance order specifying the amount the other parent must pay.
7. Enforcement: If the other parent fails to pay, you can return to court to seek enforcement of the maintenance order.
8. Review and Adjust: If circumstances change, you can apply for a review of the maintenance amount.

It’s advisable to seek legal advice or assistance from organizations specializing in family law to guide you through the process.