Assignment 1 Semester 2 2026
Unique number:
Due date: August 2026
QUESTION 1 .
(a) Effect of the Constitution on the Law of Civil Procedure
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 has changed civil procedure
because civil litigation must now be conducted in accordance with the values and
rights contained in the Bill of Rights. Section 8 provides that the Bill of Rights applies
to all law, while section 36 permits a constitutional right to be limited only where the
limitation is reasonable and justifiable in an open and democratic society.1 Important
constitutional rights affecting civil procedure include equality before the law, freedom
and security of the person, property rights, access to adequate housing and the right
of access to courts.1 These rights influence the interpretation and application of
procedural laws and court rules.