Top 5 Tips for Aspiring Criminal Lawyers in South Africa

Becoming a criminal lawyer in South Africa is a challenging yet rewarding journey, especially for young Coloured women from Cape Town who are breaking barriers in the legal profession. If you have a passion for justice and a strong sense of advocacy, here are five essential tips to help you navigate your way into the field of criminal law. Checkout our Interview with Anuscka Michelle Pereira here

1. Start with the Right High School Subjects

The foundation of your legal career starts in high school. To prepare yourself for a law degree, it’s important to choose subjects that will help you develop strong analytical and communication skills. Recommended subjects include:

• English (compulsory for all universities)

• History (to develop research and analytical skills)

• Business Studies or Economics (for an understanding of legal and financial systems)

• Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (depending on university requirements)

• Life Orientation (although not counted towards university admission, it helps build critical thinking skills)

A strong academic record will increase your chances of getting into a top law school.

2. Choose the Right Tertiary Institution

After matric, you will need to complete an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) degree, which typically takes four years. Some of the top institutions in South Africa offering LLB programs include:

• University of Cape Town (UCT) – One of the best law faculties in Africa, known for its rigorous training.

• University of the Western Cape (UWC) – A great institution with a focus on social justice and transformation.

• Stellenbosch University – Offers a strong legal program with an emphasis on critical thinking.

• University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Well-regarded for its practical approach to legal education.

• University of Pretoria (UP) – Offers a strong LLB program with access to excellent legal research resources.

If you don’t qualify for direct entry into an LLB program, you can start with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Commerce degree majoring in law, then do a postgraduate LLB.

3. Gain Practical Experience Early

Criminal law is fast-paced and requires practical skills. While studying, try to gain hands-on experience by:

• Joining your university’s moot court team

• Applying for internships or vacation work at law firms

• Volunteering at legal aid clinics or NGOs such as Legal Resources Centre or Lawyers for Human Rights

• Attending court proceedings to observe how criminal trials are conducted

The earlier you expose yourself to real-world legal practice, the better prepared you will be for your career.

4. Secure Articles at a Reputable Law Firm

After obtaining your LLB, you must complete two years of articles of clerkship under a practicing attorney. Some of the top law firms in South Africa that specialize in criminal law include:

• Webber Wentzel

• Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr

• Bowmans

• Werksmans Attorneys

• Maluks Attorneys (a strong Black-owned law firm with a focus on litigation)

Additionally, consider working with Legal Aid South Africa, which provides legal representation for those who cannot afford private attorneys. It’s not only a noble way to start your legal journey but also one of the best ways to gain meaningful courtroom experience early in your career. Legal Aid South Africa is known for developing well-rounded, socially conscious legal professionals.

5. Follow and Learn from Influential Criminal Lawyers

To stay motivated and informed, follow successful criminal lawyers who are making an impact in the field. Some notable South African lawyers include:

• Advocate Dali Mpofu SC – A well-known advocate with high-profile criminal cases.

• Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC – Specializing in human rights and constitutional law.

• Advocate Barry Roux SC – Famous for his defense work in high-profile criminal trials.

• Bridgette Ndibongo – A strong advocate for women in law and justice reform.

• The National Association of Democratic Lawyers (NADEL) – A great network for young, aspiring lawyers to connect and learn from seasoned professionals.

Notable Criminal Cases That Shaped the Field

Understanding the impact of landmark criminal cases is key to grasping how legal precedents influence justice systems.

South African Cases:

• State v. Oscar Pistorius (2014–2017) – A globally watched trial that raised questions about intent, self-defense, and gender-based violence. It showed the complexity of public interest in high-profile criminal proceedings.

• State v. Eugene de Kock (1996) – Also known as "Prime Evil," this case marked a significant moment in transitional justice post-apartheid, involving war crimes and crimes against humanity.

• The Cradock Four Inquest (1985, reopened 2023) – These political assassinations revealed how law can be both used and abused under oppressive regimes, highlighting the importance of justice in democratic societies.

International Cases:

• The Nuremberg Trials (1945–1946) – These historic trials established the precedent for prosecuting war crimes and crimes against humanity on an international level.

• United States v. Derek Chauvin (2021) – The conviction of a police officer for the murder of George Floyd was a defining moment in the global discourse on police brutality and racial justice.

• Case of Amanda Knox (Italy, 2007–2015) – This controversial murder trial highlighted flaws in evidence gathering, international legal systems, and media influence on court proceedings.

These cases underscore the complexity, ethical challenges, and far-reaching consequences of criminal law decisions.

Final Thoughts

The journey to becoming a criminal lawyer is not easy, but with dedication, the right education, and practical experience, you can make a real impact in the justice system. As a young Coloured woman in Cape Town, your voice and perspective are valuable in shaping a more just legal system. Keep pushing boundaries, stay informed, and never stop advocating for what is right!