What do lawyers wear in South Africa?

Asked by: Dr. Hobart Weimann  |  Last update: October 18, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (75 votes)

The rules of the South African courts prescribe a dress code for legal practitioners who appear before the court. Black Robes are worn by both advocates and attorneys in the High Court. In the Magistrates' Court, only attorneys are required to wear the robes when appearing.

How do South African lawyers dress?

All male advocates appearing in open court wear a stiff wing collar with bands, with dark (preferably black) suit, or with a waistcoat (which can be combined into one garment i.e. a waistcoat with sleeves) accompanied by black or grey striped pants. Female advocates also wear dark suits as described except that the ...

What is the dress code for court in South Africa?

2.2 A Judicial Officer presiding in a Magistrates Court, including a Regional Court and District Court must be robed appropriately using robes normally used by Judicial Officers in that Court and must wear a white shirt or blouse, white bib or jabot, dark pants or skirt and black or dark closed shoes.

What is a lawyer called in South Africa?

In different regions around the world, licenced legal professionals are called by different names. In South Africa, we refer to someone who performs a legal function as lawyers or attorneys (which can be used interchangeably).

What kind of attire do lawyers wear?

In general, attorneys should maintain a professional appearance by wearing suits in conservative colors like black, navy, or gray. A well-fitted suit paired with a crisp dress shirt and tie for men or blouse for women is essential.

PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA VS DONALD TRUMP: BEFORE & AFTER

25 related questions found

Why do lawyers dress so well?

After all, perception is half the battle and dressing well is good manners. Clients want to trust their lawyer; they want him to be a competent, successful, put-together person. Nothing spoils that impression faster than a poorly fitting suit, beat-up shoes, or a cheap tie.

What is the salary of a lawyer in South Africa?

Find out what the average Lawyer salary is

How much does a Lawyer make in South Africa? The average lawyer salary in South Africa is R 360 000 per year or R 185 per hour. Entry-level positions start at R 156 000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to R 2 352 000 per year.

Is being a lawyer a good career in South Africa?

Today, the legal industry in South Africa is exceptionally competitive, offering diverse career opportunities for aspirants. There is a growing demand for legal expertise driven by new challenges and emerging fields. As a result, this is encouraging millions of youths to study law and start fulfilling careers.

What do lawyers call the judge in South Africa?

In the high courts, male judges are addressed as "My Lord", and female judges are addressed as "My Lady". This practice becomes second nature to those of us within the Legal Profession and has a deep rooted history in our complex non-codified legal system.

How much does a lawyer cost in South Africa?

Understanding lawyer costs in South Africa

Junior counsel: Newer attorneys, or those with less experience, usually charge between R900 and R1,200 per hour. Mid-level attorneys: More experienced lawyers may charge between R1,200 and R4,000 per hour.

Which law degree is the best in South Africa?

LLD Law. The University of Pretoria Faculty of Law is the highest ranked law faculty in Africa and in South Africa - according to the 2018 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

Why do judges wear red robes in South Africa?

Judges in the South African Judiciary where different robes as defined by the court they sit in. In the picture Judges wearing green robes are Justices of the Constitutional Court, those wearing red robes are High Court Judges President and red robes are worn by High Court Judges when they hear criminal matters.

Can female lawyers wear dresses in court?

Pantsuits, skirt suits, or dresses are appropriate options for lawyers and other professionals in court. The skirt and dress length should be at or below the knee, and the pants should be tailored and not form-fitting. Opt for neutral, conservative colors like gray, navy, or beige.

How do lawyers wear their hair?

A low, neatly tied ponytail or a high ponytail with a wrap-around section of hair can add a touch of sophistication. To ensure a professional appearance, make sure the ponytail is not too tight and is free from flyaway. Male lawyers often opt for shorter hairstyles for a clean and professional look.

Why say "may it please the court"?

Most law schools teach that when our feet reach the podium the first words we should pronounce-with clarity, while meeting the judge's eyes-are: "May it please the court...." There is nothing wrong with the phrase, except it's just a polite nicety if the advo- cate does not know how to "please the court."

What is court etiquette in South Africa?

There is an expectation for men to always wear a jacket and a tie when they appear in court. On occasion, when the weather is hot, a Magistrate may give leave for jackets to be removed. Women are expected to attend court wearing the equivalent of office attire.

What is the difference between a lawyer and an attorney in South Africa?

A lawyer in South Africa is any person with an LLB degree working in the legal profession. Attorneys are legal professionals who have an LLB degree, have completed their 2 years of articles, have passed their professional exams, and have been admitted as attorneys by the High Court of South Africa.

Why do they say "my lady" in South Africa court?

The head of the court is the judge, and in this case the judge is female. Hence, “My Lady”. If the judge was male, the words would be My Lord or My Lordship. Catch up on the trial here.

What to wear to court in South Africa?

A All persons appearing before any court of law in the country are expected to be as presentable and appropriately dressed as is humanly possible. Clothing that is too revealing should be avoided at all cost. Dark colours are recommended. Q What are the Courts?

How many years does it take to become a lawyer in South Africa?

How long does it take to become a lawyer in South Africa? It takes at least 4 years to become a lawyer in South Africa. However, if you would like to become an attorney, you will need to complete a 4 year LLB degree and 2 years of articles for a total of at least 6 years.

What type of lawyer is most in demand in South Africa?

What types of lawyers are in high demand in South Africa? High demand exists for lawyers in corporate, criminal, human rights, environmental, and intellectual property law.

What is the highest paying job in South Africa?

A breakdown of the highest-paying jobs and their salaries
  • Neurosurgeon – R3 million to R5 million.
  • Cardiothoracic surgeon – R2. ...
  • Ship captain (Deep sea/Specialised cargo) – R2 million to R3. ...
  • Actuary (with experience) – R1. ...
  • Mining engineer (deep level) – R1. ...
  • Legal partner (corporate law) – R1.

Which type of lawyer gets paid the most?

  • Intellectual Property (IP) Lawyer. One reason IP lawyers are some of the highest-paid types of lawyers is that they require very specialized knowledge in distinct fields. ...
  • Tax Attorneys. Tax codes are complex. ...
  • Trial Attorney. ...
  • Medical Lawyer. ...
  • Patent Attorney. ...
  • Corporate Lawyer. ...
  • Real Estate Lawyer. ...
  • Family Lawyer.