Firms To Watch: Dispute resolution

Darryl Bernstein heads up the commercial litigation practice at White & Case LLP, which has been kept particularly busy acting for large financial institutions and corporations in a broad range of contentious matters. Cameron Jeffrey is a key contact.

Dispute resolution in South Africa

Bowmans

Commended as a ‘very well oiled litigation machine‘, Bowmans is jointly led by Jonathan Sahli and Lyndal AndersonClement Mkiva, Jonathan Barnes and Adam Anderson are key contacts in this space, and they are adept at handling shareholder disputes and international arbitrations. Anderson is also singled out for his excellent track record in advising on contentious insurance, construction, and financial matters, while James McKinnell is ‘an excellent negotiator.’ Tim Gordon-Grant is a highly regarded practitioner in the dispute resolution space and Kelly Calvert-Evers is knowledgeable of constitutional and administrative law disputes. In September 2024 Kelly Mzobe joined the team;, whle Gerhard Rudolph, Callum O’Connor and Wihan Meintjes arrived at the firm in January 2025.

Practice head(s):

Lyndal Anderson; Jonathan Sahli


Other key lawyers:

Tim Gordon-Grant; James McKinnell; Adam Anderson; Tori Herholdt; Clement Mkiva; Kabwela Chisaka; Jonathan Barnes; Kelly Calvert-Evers; Kelly Mzobe; Angela Matlata; Callum O’Connor; Gerhard Rudolph; Wihan Meintjes


Testimonials

‘James McKinnell is a seasoned litigator with excellent commercial acumen. He is knowledgeable and strategic and has a well-run team who delivers high-value work under tight timelines.’

‘James McKinnell is a good communicator and has the ability to calm down clients in difficult situations. He is also an excellent negotiator who advocates for his clients while being understanding of the counterparty’s position.’

‘Tim Gordon Grant has excellent client relationship skills, and meticulous attention to detail.’

‘Jonathan Barnes is becoming a leader in South Africa’s dispute resolution space. Jonathan is precise, efficient, and knowledgeable. I value his forthright approach and his practical insights.’

‘They are a very well-oiled litigation machine.’

‘They allocate the right level of seniority to our queries. They understand our business and have experience of litigating in court and via arbitration.’

‘The dispute lawyers are highly skilled strategic partners and understand the commercial realities facing our business. They are responsive and have the ability to gear up quickly when given an urgent instruction.’

‘The Bowmans team is always available to pick up on issues that need to be addressed ahead of strict deadlines. The dynamics of litigation require agile engagement. The Bowmans attorneys understand this.’

Key clients

African Rainbow Minerals Limited


Coronation Fund Managers Limited


Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI)


African Rainbow Minerals Limited and Patrice Motsepe


Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited


KPMG Incorporated


South African Heritage Resources Agency


The Robben Island Museum and the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture


National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA)


BHP Billiton Plc (BHP)


Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited (PIC)


KPMG Incorporated


Work highlights


  • Defending African Rainbow Minerals Limited against an application for the certification of a class action brought by former and current coal mineworkers, concerning allegations that the mineworkers contracted lung diseases caused by exposure to coal dust.
  • Representing the Coronation group in a dispute with the South African Revenue Services concerning whether the income of the client’s Irish subsidiary should be taxed in South Africa.

Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr

Led by Rishaban Moodley, the dispute resolution team at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr is highly regarded for its expertise in advising on complex, cross-border litigation. Moodley is well known for assisting with forensic investigations, and the ‘very professionalTim Fletcher often handles commercial litigation. Corné Lewis is ‘an exceptional lawyer‘, who is experienced in mining, and insurance law matters. Lucinde Rhoodie is ‘extremely knowledgeable in her field of expertise and her advice is always pragmatic and commercially orientated‘; Anja Hofmeyr is ‘commercially astute‘; and Jackwell Feris is a key contact for domestic and international arbitration. Claudette Dutilleux is ‘a brilliant attorney with an in-depth knowledge of the law‘. In 2024 Mongezi Mpahlwa left the firm and Sentebale Makara recently joined the team.

Practice head(s):

Rishaban Moodley


Other key lawyers:

Tim Fletcher; Clive Rumsey; Lucinde Rhoodie; Claudette Dutilleux; Jackwell Feris; Corné Lewis; Anja Hofmeyr; Sentebale Makara; Tim Smit; Burton Meyer


Testimonials

‘We have found Tim Fletcher and his team to be very professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. The advice we received was both sound legally and commercial.’

‘Corné Lewis is an exceptional lawyer. He is always available to assist. Corné acts in the best interest of his clients and is resourceful, collaborative, detailed, and effective,’

‘Our dealings with Lucinde Rhoodie and her team are always a pleasure as she is extremely knowledgeable in her field of expertise and her advice is always pragmatic and commercially orientated. She is extremely accessible and quick to respond to queries, as well as solution driven.’

‘Lucinde Rhoodie is an exceptional litigator, vastly experienced, and on top of her game.’

‘Anja Hofmeyr’s advice is commercially astute.’

‘Claudette Dutilleux is a brilliant attorney with an in-depth knowledge of the law. She is solution driven and at all times maintains the utmost professionalism. She is thorough and timely with feedback and updates. She is an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘Their commercial acumen and deep understanding of our sector have proven invaluable, particularly in providing urgent support whenever required.’

‘We have experienced rapid, precise responses in time-sensitive situations, demonstrating the law firm’s agility and unwavering dedication.’

Key clients

Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa


Advtech


Coca-Cola


The Independent Institute of Education


Liberty Group


Liquid Telecommunications South African


Lombard Insurance Company


Mylan South Africa


Nedbank


Sun International


Spar Group


Tsebo Solutions Group


Mediclinic Group


Afrimat


Atlantis Foundries


Arrowgem


Sasol Siyakha Supplier and Enterprise Development Trust


South32


Samancor Chrome


Shell Downstream South Africa


Minister of Police


National Commissioner Police


Richards Bay Gas Power 2


Strategic Fuel Fund Association


Puma Africa Holdings


Puma Energy Properties


Puma Energy Procurement South Africa


Shadow Careers


Shadow Academy Global NPC


Glencore Global Business Centre


Special Investigating Unit


National Health Laboratory Services


ENSafrica

At ENSafrica, the dispute resolution department is headed by commercial litigation expert George van Niekerk, who often acts for large private companies in a range of disputes. John Zieff is ‘an exceptional litigation attorney‘, and Shenaaz Munga is a key contact for clients in the media and financial services sectors. Aslam Moosajee‘s workload takes in administrative, commercial, and constitutional law disputes, while Rob Scott regularly handles disputes for clients in the insurance and construction sectors. Wim Steyn lends support on contentious contractual matters and shareholder disputes.

Practice head(s):

George van Niekerk


Other key lawyers:

John Zieff; Shenaaz Munga; Aslam Moosajee; Wim Steyn; Zara Sher; Rob Scott; Deon Lambert; Inathi Mpapa


Testimonials

‘A highly professional team demonstrating a high level of integrity and capability. Their ability to get on top of the facts and documents and to understand the complexities in the matter and the industry to which it relates is their strength. Their commitment to driving the matters forward is also very impressive.’

‘John Zieff is an exceptionally good dispute resolution lawyer.’

‘The ENS team really goes the extra mile to ensure high profile matters are well presented. Senior management and executives takes comfort when ENS is briefed on complicated matters.’

Key clients

Discovery Health (Pty) Ltd


Industrial Development Corporation


Absolute Pets Proprietary Limited


African Legal Support Facility


The Kingdom of Lesotho


Gramercy Funds Management Ltd


Vodacom (Pty) Ltd


Eskom Holdings SOC Limited


Veraison (Pty) Ltd


Topical Paradise (Pty) Ltd


BP


Webber Wentzel

Headed up by Sarah McKenzie, the dispute resolution practice at Webber Wentzel is home to a ‘solution driven and very accessible‘ team. International and domestic arbitration is a key driver of work for the group, which is experienced in class action litigation and contentious business rescue proceedings. Trevor Versfeld is a highly regarded practitioner in the space, and specialises in handling disputes for clients in the financial services sector. Class action disputes are a key area of instruction for Nick Alp, and Lionel van Tonder brings extensive experience in advising on large, cross-border investigations. The ‘excellentMaria Philippides fields expertise in contractual litigation and insurance disputes. Vlad Movshovich regularly handles complex international arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Sarah McKenzie


Other key lawyers:

Maria Philippides; Lionel Van Tonder; Trevor Versfeld; Vlad Movshovich; Dario Milo; Nick Alp; Pooja Dela; Kagiso Scott; Erwyn Durman


Testimonials

‘Solution driven and very accessible.’

‘The whole team is excellent.’

‘A first-rate team, who are highly responsive, with high attention to detail.’

‘Sarah McKenzie and Kagiso Scott demonstrated superb technical knowledge. Both are highly commercial and were able to steer and guide me, politely and courteously, through the often unfamiliar litigation process.’

‘The team stands out for its diversity and relatability, setting it apart from many top-tier firms in South Africa. They provide excellent guidance to our teams, addressing any inquiries with utmost professionalism and kindness. The team has successfully led numerous cases with innovative and dynamic strategies. Additionally, they are focused on building strong relationships and are flexible in handling matters on terms that are financially beneficial for us. Overall, their great culture is clearly reflected in their work.’

‘Maria Philippides is our go-to attorney for legal opinions on complex matters. She has the remarkable ability to break down intricate issues into digestible pieces, making them relatable and understandable for individuals at all levels. She is an excellent attorney with an impressive level of articulation and clarity.’

‘Erwyn Durman is a young, energetic attorney with impressive legal knowledge and skills. He is relatable and dependable, consistently handling very complex matters for us with excellent delivery.’

‘They are on top of things.’

Key clients

Anglo American South Africa (Pty) Limited


Nedbank Limited


Transnet SOC Limited


Absa Bank Limited and Absa Group Limited (“Absa”)


RCL Foods


Work highlights


  • Represented Anglo American South Africa (Pty) Limited before the High Court of South Africa concerning class action litigation brought by 140000 residents from Kabwe in Zambia, involving allegations of contracting lead poisoning.
  • Representing RCL Foods in a dispute with Tongaat Hulett Sugar South Africa Limited concerning the legal status of payment obligations imposed under the South African sugar industry legislation.

Werksmans Attorneys

Headed up by Corlett Manaka, the dispute resolution practice at Werksmans Attorneys has an excellent track record in handling complex commercial disputes. The firm is also a key port of call for clients in the mining, telecoms, and financial services sectors in a wide range of contentious matters, and is very experienced in representing public sector bodies in disputes. Darren Willans counts pension fund litigation and insurance disputes as key areas of expertise, while Jennifer Smit is well versed in handling contentious property and construction mandates. Faith Sikhavhakhavha is active on investigations and Jones Antunes‘ expertise includes mining disputes, contractual litigation, and shareholder disputes.

Practice head(s):

Corlett Manaka


Other key lawyers:

Darren Willans; Jennifer Smit; Faith Sikhavhakhavha; Koketso Rapoo; Sarah Passmoor; Akhona Bilatyi; Jones Antunes; David Hertz


Testimonials

‘The team is able to provide legal solutions where there are complex issues. The advice is also realistic and strikes a balance between the challenges of formal litigation and arbitration and the commercial need for a timely solution.’

‘There is a large reservoir of diverse expertise to be drawn on within the team and external counsel which results in an efficient, precise, and appropriate legal strategy for each matter.’

‘Their turnaround time is exceptional coupled with a quality product – accuracy is not sacrificed for speed.’

‘Jones Antunes is our ‘go-to’ for any matter. He has a specific skill to match the legal advice with the commercial framework.’

‘Werksmans is a hands-on law firm which constantly keeps clients updated on developments.’

‘Corlett Manaka is an exceptional attorney.’

Key clients

Lenstwe Tshipi Mining Proprietary Limited


Glencore South Africa (Pty) Ltd


Pick n Pay (Pty) Ltd


Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority


Saint Gobain Construction Products (Pty) Ltd


Africoal (Pty) Ltd


Calculus Capital (Pty) Ltd


Nedbank Limited


Professional Provident Society Limited


Bidfood (Pty) Ltd


DGI Global (Pty) Ltd


Gold Fields Operations Limited


Gauteng Management Agency


SKG Group of Companies


Glencore Operations South Africa Proprietary Limited


Afgri Poultry Pty Ltd


Mobile Telephone Networks Proprietary Limited


Nissan South Africa Proprietary Limited


The South African Medical Association NPC


VBS Mutual Bank


Gibela Rail Transport Consortium


The Government of the Republic of South Africa


Public Investment Corporation


Financial Intelligence Centre


South African Roads Agency


Work highlights


  • Represented the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority in a ongoing dispute concerning the execution of an arbitration award arising from a supply agreement between Fraser Solar and the Kingdom of Lesotho.
  • Represented the Gauteng Provisional Government in an ongoing insurance dispute with Zurich Insurance Company South Africa, relating to alleged defective design and subsequent damage sustained to a part of the Gautrain tunnel.
  • Defending the SARB, PA and the FIC in ongoing proceedings involving an equality court application launched by the Sekunjalo Group of Companies, AYO technologies and the founder, Dr Iqbal Survé, concerning allegations of unfair and racial discrimination.

Clyde & Co LLP

The dispute resolution team at Clyde & Co LLP is well-regarded for its expertise in insurance litigation, and is adept at commercial disputes, investigations, business rescue proceedings, and shareholder disputes. Daniel Le Roux is ‘well known for his brilliant strategic thinking and negotiating abilities‘, and Tony Hardie, the managing partner of the firm’s South African office, regularly acts for insurers, reinsurers, regulatory entities, and brokers in contentious insurance matters. Alon Meyerov is instructed in construction and engineering disputes and is active in international arbitration, while Arthur James is a key contact for transportation and shipping disputes, with particular expertise in reinsurance issues. The ‘exceptionalLauren Fine specialises in dispute resolution and often represents corporates, manufacturers, and property developers in a broad range of contentious work.

Practice head(s):

Tony Hardie; Daniel Le Roux; Amelia Costa; Deon Francis; Reshana Pillay; Athol Gordon; Arthur James; Ernie Van Der Vyver; Lee Astfalck; Wim Cilliers; Alon Meyerov


Other key lawyers:

Lauren Fine; Dominique Pereira; Verusha Moodley


Testimonials

‘Lauren Fine is an outstanding lawyer. Her ability to grasp commercial concepts which are industry unique is rare to find. Lauren is trustworthy when it comes to running a matter and her relationship with counsel is truly impressive. ’

‘Clyde & Co is our preferred service provider for inter alia alternative dispute resolution. They have a diverse team of highly qualified individuals that understand our business very well and offer services aligned to our niche product and requirements. The service is appropriately priced for the value received.’

‘Clyde & Co has a reputation for providing excellent services in handling difficult legal conflicts. With a staff of extremely talented individuals, the firm specialises in offering quick and affordable solutions. Because of their regular ability to provide positive results, Clyde & Co is regarded as a trustworthy partner by insurance companies for their superior conflict resolution services.’

Key clients

Consumer Goods Council of South Africa


Unlimited Building Supplies SA (Pty) Ltd


Chubb Insurance South Africa Limited


Clicks Group


Chubb Insurance South Africa Limited & IBM South Africa (Pty) Ltd


Royal Bafokeng Holdings Limited


SHA (Pty) Ltd


Global Aerospace


AIG South Africa Limited


Barloworld Automotive and Logistics (Pty) Ltd


Barloworld Motor (Pty) Lt


Barloworld Motor Retail (Pty) Ltd


Intertek Group


The Ministry of the Armed Forces – French Government


Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

At Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, the 'dependable' disputes team handles construction and infrastructure litigation, often in the renewable energy sector. Jonathan Ripley-Evans, who heads up the practice, is active in international arbitration and litigation, while Cameron Dunstan-Smith, who leads the corporate crime and investigations department, is a key contact for compliance matters and domestic and cross-border investigations. Fiorella Noriega del Valle counts commercial dispute resolution as a core strength.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Ripley-Evans; Cameron Dunstan-Smith


Other key lawyers:

Fiorella Noriega del Valle; Jenalee Harrison; Robyn Khumalo; Kyle Melville


Testimonials

‘Fiorella Noriega del Valle and her team are very responsive, provide great practical advice, and are always available when you need them. They take initiative and are always thinking of ways to resolve disputes through potential settlement. ’

‘Fiorella Noriega Del Valle and Jenalee Harrison have all provided exceptional service. Their drafting is excellent, they provide practical and commercial advice and really take the time to understand the nuances in the matters I give them. They have a great understanding of our business and what questions to ask to get to the bottom of things.’

‘Jonathan Ripley-Evans and Robyn Khumalo are extremely knowledgeable in their area of expertise. They consistently go above and beyond in terms of advice, meetings, turnaround times, professionalism.’

Key clients

Anglo American PLC


Apis Growth 8 Limited


BDO Corporate Finance (Pty) Ltd


EDF Renewables (Pty) Ltd


Engie Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd


G7 Renewable Energies (Pty) Ltd


Primark Stores Limited


Rustenburg Platinum Mines Limited


Scatec Solar Africa (Pty) Ltd


Standard Bank Group Ltd


Takealot Online (RF) (Pty) Ltd


Thales South Africa Proprietary Limited


Gartner Inc.


Thales Societe Anonyme


Dyson Limited


Work highlights


  • Representing EDF Renewables in judicial review proceedings launched by Noupoort Wind Farm, concerning allegations that “wake loss effects” were not considered when environmental authorisations were granted to three of the client’s project companies.
  • Represented Thales South Africa Proprietary Limited in relation to ongoing proceedings concerning its being charged as a co-accused with former President Jacob Zuma, in a criminal case.

Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc

At Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc, André Vos heads up the dispute resolution team, and has an excellent reputation for handling corporate investigations, mining disputes, as well as domestic and international arbitration. Riccardo Petersen leads the commercial litigation group and regularly acts for financial institutions, domestic and international banks, corporates and micro-lenders, while Donald Dinnie and David Kapelus are instructed by insurers and reinsurers in a wide range of contentious matters. Jeffrey Kron is well versed in mining, banking, and corporate disputes; John Bell is ‘an exceptional lawyer who always goes the extra mile‘; and Widaad Ebrahim-Fakier‘s workload includes cybersecurity disputes. Sentebale Makara left the firm in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

André Vos; Riccardo Petersen


Other key lawyers:

John Bell; Jeffrey Kron; Abongile Vuso; Widaad Ebrahim-Fakier; Brent Botha; Donald Dinnie; David Kapelus


Testimonials

‘Brent Botha has been exceptionally great.’

‘Responsive, knowledgeable people.’

‘Transparent billing and a diverse team. ’

‘With regards to the dispute resolution team, what makes their practice unique is their responsiveness and efficiency in dealing with matters.’

‘In terms of the individuals, they are very experienced and well versed with dispute resolution matters which means that they are able to provide us with tailor-made solutions. ’

‘Experienced, well resourced, and friendly.’

‘They provide an excellent service.’

‘Norton Rose employs highly proficient lawyers, all of whom consistently demonstrate a willingness to assist with quick turnaround times.’

Key clients

Glencore Coal South African Operations


Glencore Energy UK (Oil & gas)


Sibanye-Stillwater Ltd


TotalEnergies


Harmony Gold


Goldfields Limited


Anglogold Ashanti


FirstRand Bank Limited


Astron Energy


Shell South Africa Holdings


The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)


BP Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd


Wilmar International


ArcelorMittal South Africa Limited


Actom (Pty) Ltd


Kudumane Manganese Resources


WSP Group Africa (Pty) Ltd


Group Five Power International (Pty) Ltd


Trustco Bank Limited


The National Empowerment Fund (NEF)


Work highlights


  • Defending the FNB in ongoing litigation arising from an equality court application launched by the Sekunjalo Group of Companies and the founder, Dr Iqbal Survé, involving alleged unfair and racial discrimination, arising from the unilateral termination of banking contracts by commercial banks, towards its customers.

Adams & Adams

Adams & Adams garners praise for its ‘high-end expertise’ in commercial litigation. Practice head Jac Marais is praised for his ‘effectiveness and professionalism to every matter he handles', while Grégor Wolter is highly regarded for his expertise in commercial dispute resolution. Thando Manentsa‘s workload takes in competition litigation and contractual disputes, Demi Pretorius is well versed in representing corporate entities in arbitration, while Thandiwe Seboletswe fields experience in administrative and constitutional disputes. Chervaune Utermöhlen lends support on contractual disputes. Cohen Grootboom and Kelly Mzobe left the firm in August 2024.

Practice head(s):

Jac Marais


Other key lawyers:

Grégor Wolter; Demi Pretorius; Thando Manentsa; Thandiwe Seboletswe; Chervaune Utermöhlen


Testimonials

‘Adams & Adams stands out for its exceptional combination of expertise and personalised service. The firm boasts strong partner and associate teams that excel in addressing complex legal challenges with both effectiveness and elegance.’

‘Adams & Adams brings both depth and breadth to their legal solutions, ensuring that no matter the complexity of the case, it is handled with professionalism and care. The team’s strength lies in their capacity for innovative problem-solving and their commitment to finding practical, client-focused outcomes.’

‘Jac Marais is a standout professional. As a partner, he brings a remarkable level of effectiveness and professionalism to every matter he handles. His deep industry knowledge and strategic thinking ensure that complex legal issues are not only resolved but resolved in a manner that exceeds client expectations.’

‘The commercial litigation team brings extensive experience and a meticulous approach to resolving business conflicts. They excel at navigating the complexities of South African law, delivering not only immediate resolutions but also forward-thinking strategies to mitigate future risks. Their deep understanding of the country’s regulatory and legal frameworks ensures clients receive comprehensive, well-considered legal representation.’

‘A key strength of Adams and Adams in commercial litigation is their personalised and strategic approach. The team takes time to understand each client’s specific circumstances, crafting tailored solutions aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes. Clients consistently benefit from their proactive and insightful legal thinking, often receiving results that surpass initial expectations.’

‘Grégor Wolter has been nothing short of exceptional. His deep expertise, strategic insight, and calm approach to even the most challenging legal issues truly set him apart from competitors.’

‘Chervaune Utermohlen brings dedication and client-focused care to her work.’

‘Their combined expertise and unwavering commitment make them an excellent choice for anyone in need of legal assistance, especially in litigation.’

Key clients

The Technology Innovation Agency


The Land Bank


Helen Suzman Foundation


The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority


Vodacom (Pty) Ltd


LA Group (Pty) Ltd


Premier FMCG (Pty) Ltd


Lombardy Development (Pty) Ltd


The City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality


Claims Funding Europe


Intercape Ferreira Mainliner (Pty) Ltd


Molamu Mosotho Majorie and Thari Rail JV


Southern Palace Investments 380 (Pty) Ltd


South African Revenue Service


SAAB Grintek Defence (Pty) Ltd


Broadband Infraco SOC


Pretor Group (Pty) Ltd


Fresh Camp Management Services (Pty) Ltd


Kismet Foods (Pty) Ltd


Chalmar Beef (Pty) Ltd


Work highlights


  • Represented Intercape Ferreira Mainliner in ongoing proceedings brought against governmental agencies.

Fasken

The dispute resolution team at Fasken has an excellent track record in representing traditional communities in complex litigation, and is equally adept at advising on contentious infrastructure, administrative, engineering, and construction matters. Tania Siciliano, who heads up the practice, is noted for her strength in commercial litigation, and Rakhee Bhoora‘s workload takes in contentious infrastructure issues. Bianca Da Costa counts alternative dispute resolution as a core area of expertise, while Andricia Hinckemann-Dlamini regularly acts for mining and healthcare sector entities in commercial litigation. Barr-Mary Tyzack and Wesley Fletcher are key associates to note. Cohen Grootboom joined the team in September 2024.

Practice head(s):

Tania Siciliano


Other key lawyers:

Rakhee Bhoora; Bianca Da Costa; Andricia Hinckemann-Dlamini; Jesicca Rajpal; Kate Daniels; Barr-Mary Tyzack; Wesley Fletcher; Cohen Grootboom


Testimonials

‘Kate Daniels and Barr-Mary Tzyack have been exceptional in their advice, availability, billing rates, and general commercial acumen in matters pertaining to dispute resolution in construction matters.’

‘They provided innovative ideas on resolving disputes.’

‘This team always provides support that goes beyond it being an external service provider. They have a great way of understanding the customer’s business and functions as an extension of the customer’s team.’

Key clients

South African National Roads Agency


Minister of Trade and Industry, Department of Trade and Industry (dti)


Baphalane Ba Mantserre Community Development Trust (Respondent)


Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)


The Colleges of Medicine South Africa


Ditshimega Projects and Training (Pty) Limited


CMS South Africa

Siphokazi Kayana heads CMS South Africa‘s dispute resolution practice, which is well known for assisting clients in the financial services, mining, telecoms, and insurance sectors with litigation. Bridget Letsholo and Innocentia Moela are key names for contentious business rescue proceedings, and Nomfundo Mkatshwa-Jackson is active In disputes involving company law, contract law, and administrative law.

Practice head(s):

Siphokazi Kayana


Other key lawyers:

Nomfundo Mkatshwa-Jackson; Innocentia Moela; Bridget Letsholo


Testimonials

‘They go over and above to ensure that the client’s interests are protected.’

‘It is an absolute pleasure to work with Siphokazi Kayana and the rest of the team. They are a group of capable, skilled and highly intelligent lawyers. Siphokazi is always available to provide legal guidance.’

‘They are diligent and committed to delivering a professional service. ’

DLA Piper

At DLA Piper, the dispute resolution team is very experienced in assisting clients from the energy and natural resources, mining, consumer goods, and financial services sectors with a broad range of domestic and cross-border litigation and arbitration. Practice head Kirsty Simpson fields expertise in commercial litigation, and Waseeqah Makadam‘s workload includes contentious contractual matters and shareholder disputes. Construction litigation is a key pillar of Tumisang Mongae‘s practice.

Practice head(s):

Kirsty Simpson


Other key lawyers:

Tumisang Mongae; Waseeqah Makadam


Testimonials

‘They are always available, easily contactable by phone, helpful, and prepared to advise on broad range of issues.’

‘Competency and perseverance.’

‘Capability and focus. ’

‘Kirsty Simpson is an incredible attorney who provides sound, practical commercial advice to often complex business problems. I would highly recommend Kirsty. ’

‘The people are very competent, efficient, and have a wide range of legal skills.’

‘There is a personal touch and a keen interest in the client’s business.’

Key clients

Exxaro Resources


FirstRand Bank


Pick n Pay Retailers


Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF)


The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland


SMM Holdings


Pizza Hut


Beifang Mining Services South Africa


Medtronic Africa


MC Mining


Lawtons Africa

Lawtons Africa’s dispute resolution practice is a key port of call for banking, oil and gas, telecoms, as well as construction and engineering clients. The ‘friendly and knowledgeable‘ team is equally strong in handling litigation for state-owned entities, prominent corporates, and clients in the higher education sector. Practice head Veronica Vurgarellis‘ workload includes international arbitration, commercial disputes, contentious administrative law issues, and regulatory-related litigation. Tamsin Tustin is a key contact for insurers, and Nicholas de Decker stands out for his experience in competition litigation. Tshavhungwe Tshivhase and Kobus de Beer left the firm in February and April 2024 respectively.

Practice head(s):

Veronica Vurgarellis


Other key lawyers:

Tamsin Tustin; Nicholas de Decker


Testimonials

‘They produced excellent work.’

‘They are trustworthy and dependable.’

‘The team consists of very experienced and professional lawyers. They ensure that they understand clients’ needs.’

Key clients

Access Bank


BP Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd


Telkom SOC Limited


Mercedes Benz South Africa


Business Connexion (Pty) Limited


Richard’s Bay Coal Terminal


Independent Regulatory Board of Auditors


South African Local Government Association


University of Johannesburg


Bounty Brands


Council for Medical Schemes


City of Tshwane


SASRIA


Medshield Medical Scheme


Public Investment Corporation


Work highlights


  • Represented Richards Bay Coal Terminal (Pty) Ltd in ongoing proceedings arising from an arbitration involving the termination of the rights of a shareholder suspected of exporting coal under a court preservation order to parties linked to state capture.
  • Defending Access Bank against multiple claims involving alleged unfair and racial discrimination arising from the closure of bank accounts of several companies linked to Dr Iqbal Survé and the Sekunjalo Group.
  • Defended the University of Johannesburg against an urgent application to interdict the roll-out of a new learning management system pending the review of the award of the tender to a new service provider.

RAMS Attorneys

Led by commercial litigator Karabo Motshwane, the group at RAMS Attorneys is well versed in contentious business rescue issues for mining, agricultural, retail, and financial services sector clients.

Practice head(s):

Karabo Motshwane


Testimonials

‘The team is very knowledgeable and accessible.’

‘They are responsive and can handle matters under pressure. They provide an in-house holistic solution.’

‘Karabo Motshwane is exceptionally good at his work, easily accessible, very responsive, and and organised.’

Key clients

Arnot Opco (Pty) Ltd


China Africa Motors


Ebundu


Mantombazana Farm (Pty) Ltd


Mashibe Group (Pty) Ltd


Southern Palace


Industrial Development Corporation SOC


MM Engineering CC


Halo Heritage (Pty) Ltd


Phumatra Transport (Pty) Ltd