LAW Clinic mandate and access

The Law Clinic's attorneys provide legal advice, assistance, and representation to eligible clients. Where a matter falls within the Clinic's mandate, our attorneys may institute or defend legal proceedings and litigate on behalf of clients before the relevant courts and forums.

The Law Clinic provides legal information, advice, and assistance to vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the community, with a particular focus on matters affecting:

• Women and girls

• Children

• Older persons

• Survivors of gender-based violence

• Survivors of domestic and sexual violence

• Migrant women and children facing domestic abuse

• Other vulnerable persons whose matters fall within the Law Clinic's mandate

​Clients may approach the Law Clinic directly or may be referred by police stations, courts, Thuthuzela Care Centres, social workers, community organisations, civil society organisations and other service providers.

All matters are subject to an initial assessment to determine whether they fall within the Law Clinic's mandate and whether the Clinic is able to provide the appropriate legal assistance or representation.

The Legal Clinic's attorneys provide legal representation to eligible clients in matters falling within the Clinic's mandate.

Depending on the nature and circumstances of the matter, legal representation may include:

• Instituting or defending legal proceedings

• Drafting pleadings, affidavits, notices and other legal documents

• Providing legal advice throughout the litigation process

• Preparing clients for court proceedings

• Appearing in court on behalf of clients

• Representing clients in appropriate legal proceedings and forums

• Engaging with relevant stakeholders and opposing parties where appropriate

• Providing clients with updates and guidance throughout the progress of their matters.