About the Book
In the intricate dance of relationships, where every step counts and every misstep matters, Bertus Preller’s latest book, “The Unexpected Counsellor,” emerges as a beacon of wisdom and guidance. As a seasoned family and divorce lawyer, Preller has witnessed the spectrum of human emotions play out in the confines of his office. His book, now available on Takealot.com in paperback and globally on Amazon.com and Apple Books, is a testament to his profound understanding of the complexities of human relationships.
Chris Lategan, a reader who recently reviewed the book on Takealot, praises Preller’s ability to delve deep into the root of relationship problems. He recommends “The Unexpected Counsellor” to anyone in or contemplating a relationship, highlighting its relevance and impact. Luke, another reader, describes the book as a raw and authentic journey into the heart of relationships, far from the cliché advice of typical self-help books. Pauline, echoing these sentiments, wishes she had this book 24 years ago, lauding it as an amazing guide for couples at any relationship stage.
“The Unexpected Counsellor” is not just another book on relationships. It is a journey through the myriad hues and textures of marital ties and relationships. Each chapter unfolds a unique story, highlighting both the beauty and challenges inherent within the realm of matrimonial and relationship bonds. From the fiscal friction to the fidelity fiasco, the digital dilemma to the addictive abyss, Preller navigates these turbulent waters with the deftness of a seasoned captain.
Bertus Preller’s journey in the legal realm is as diverse and intricate as the cases he handles. Currently anchoring his practice at Maurice Phillips Wisenberg in Cape Town, his career trajectory has been meteoric. From the landscapes of Somerset West to the hallowed halls of Grey College and further, to the University of the Free State and the University of Johannesburg, his education laid a rock-solid foundation for his legal journey.
Preller’s introduction of iDivorce in 2006, South Africa’s first online DIY Divorce platform, was a game-changer. His areas of legal expertise, encompassing everything from parenting plans and custody issues to international divorce law, are as varied and colourful as a coral bed. His dedication to the legal profession is unwavering, and his thirst for knowledge unquenchable.
In “The Unexpected Counsellor,” Preller offers not just stories but also practical guidance on keeping relationships healthy and balanced. The book equips readers with tools for communication skills and conflict resolution strategies, preparing them for the realities and challenges that may arise along the way.
As we navigate the complexities of modern relationships, “The Unexpected Counsellor” stands as a lighthouse, guiding us through the fog of uncertainty and conflict. It is a book that not only provides insights but also encourages reflection and growth. Whether you are just starting out, engaged, or already married, this book is a valuable companion on your journey.
In conclusion, “The Unexpected Counsellor” is more than a book; it is a journey into the heart of what it means to be in a relationship. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and appreciate the beauty and challenges of being with someone. So, dive into its pages and discover the valuable insights it has to offer. Your relationship will thank you for it.
Insights from the Bench: A Retired Judge’s Perspective
The wisdom in “The Unexpected Counsellor” resonates not just with couples and individuals, but also with legal professionals who have navigated the complexities of family law. Retired Judge Elize Steyn, a figure well-versed in the intricacies of matrimonial cases, commends the book for its insightful approach. Judge Steyn notes that while the book does not delve into the legal principles of divorce, it brilliantly addresses the emotional and psychological aspects of relationship breakdowns. She appreciates how Bertus Preller, with his extensive experience, offers strategies to manage and potentially resolve conflicts in relationships. Her endorsement underscores the book’s value not only as a guide for couples but also as a resource for legal professionals seeking a deeper understanding of the emotional dynamics in family law cases.
A Psychological Deep Dive: Endorsement from a Renowned Psychologist
Dr. Astrid Martalas, a respected psychologist specializing in relationship therapy, praises “The Unexpected Counsellor” for its brave exploration into the psychological aspects of love and divorce. She highlights how Bertus Preller, with his unique perspective as a divorce lawyer, ventures into the often turbulent psychological waters of relationships. Dr. Martalas admires the book’s blend of humour and lightheartedness, which she believes masks serious home truths about relationships. Her review suggests that the book is not only a valuable resource for couples but also for professionals like lawyers, advocates, psychologists, and social workers. Dr. Martalas hopes that the scenarios and suggestions in Preller’s book will be recognized, absorbed, and applied by those dealing with relationship challenges, always with a focus on the positive.
About the Author
Bertus Preller may navigate the tumultuous seas of matrimonial law with the deftness of a seasoned captain, but it is the serene world of photography where his soul finds its reprieve. As the author of “Everyone’s Guide to Divorce and Separation,” his literary voyage set sail with Zebra Press, an imprint of Random House Penguin, back in 2013. With the keen eye of a photographer, he captures the nuances of family law, framing each case with precision and care, much like the perfect shot.
His skill has not gone unnoticed; he was heralded as one of the Best Divorce Lawyers in South Africa by Business Day in 2023. Currently anchoring his practice at Maurice Phillips Wisenberg in Cape Town, Bertus’s career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. From the landscapes of Somerset West to the hallowed halls of Grey College in the Free State, and further, to the University of the Free State and the University of Johannesburg, his education laid a rock-solid foundation for his legal journey. Admitted as an attorney in 1989, he has since sailed the legal waters for over three decades, developing a navigational chart that is both intricate and extensive.
His legal compass has pointed him towards every conceivable courtroom from the Magistrates Court to the High Court, and the Constitutional Court. Yet, it is within the realm of Family and Divorce Law that Bertus truly charts his course, representing a constellation of clients across South Africa’s diverse landscape. A trusted authority in family law, Bertus’s commentary shines through various media outlets, including the Sunday Times, News24, and Business Times. He has illuminated television screens on SABC’s 3 Talk and Morning Live, and filled the airwaves on 702, CapeTalk, and 5FM. His roster of clients, a mosaic of artists, athletes, and individuals from the upper echelons of society, stands as a testament to his ability to tailor bespoke legal strategies.
In a parallel universe, Bertus Preller might be found beneath the azure skies of the Seychelles, imparting his knowledge as a diving instructor. In this second life of his imagination, the ebb and flow of the ocean’s currents echo the fluctuating tides of the legal cases he so adeptly handles. This affinity for the depths of the sea pairs harmoniously with his passion for photography, a skill that he practices with professional zeal.
His areas of legal expertise are as varied and colourful as a coral bed, encompassing everything from parenting plans and custody issues to international divorce law. His dedication to the legal profession is unwavering, and his thirst for knowledge unquenchable. Through his blog, FamilyLaws and DivorceLaws, Bertus continues to shed light on the ever-evolving face of Family and Divorce Law in South Africa, always aiming to keep his readers as informed and prepared as any diver exploring new depths.