Dispute resolution

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 ‘excellent’ Maria Philippides fields expertise in contractual litigation and insurance disputes. Vlad Movshovich regularly handles complex international arbitration.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘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.

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