How To Become An Advocate In South Africa & Subjects Needed

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Are you looking for a way to become an Advocate in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become an Advocate in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does An Advocate Do?

Advocates have specialised expertise in various areas of the law, especially in the art of presenting and arguing cases in court. They get briefed to take on cases by attorneys when a specialist skill is needed in a court case or in research into the law. Attorneys are the lawyers that clients see first with their problems, giving general advice in the law, and then engaging the advocate on the clients’ behalf.

An advocate prepares cases by:

  • Reading many factual documents
  • Researching the law
  • Listening to clients’ stories and witnesses’ evidence
  • Clearly defining the issues that need decision
  • Drafting pleadings and arguments
  • Negotiating settlements or conduct of cases with colleagues
  • Guiding and testing witness evidence by asking questions and cross-questioning them.

Advocates are organised into societies known as ‘Bars’, which are the bodies representing the advocates’ profession, and are required to practice together in sets of chambers.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

The basic requirement for becoming an advocate is an LLB degree, following the completion of a Bachelor of Law degree. A National Senior Certificate that meets the requirements for a degree course is a prerequisite. The next step is to apply to the High Court to be included on the ‘roll’ of advocates, which enables one to practise as an advocate in South Africa.

Once admitted, it is customary to join one of the Bars. In order to be accepted, graduates are required to serve an apprenticeship (called a pupillage) of one year. It is also necessary to pass the National Bar Examination of the General Council of the Bar, which is a test of practical ability.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Languages
  • History

Where Can I Study?

University of Cape Town

University of Johannesburg

University of Pretoria

University of Stellenbosch

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