Becoming a qualified attorney in South Africa is more than just completing a law degree, it’s a journey marked by practical experience, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of the legal system.
The candidate attorney journey is the bridge between academic learning and independent legal practice.
One of the most pivotal stages in this journey is serving as a candidate attorney.
What Is a Candidate Attorney?
A candidate attorney is a law graduate who has completed their LLB degree and is undergoing a mandatory period of practical legal training – known as articles of clerkship – under the supervision of a practising attorney. This stage, regulated by the Legal Practice Council (LPC), is essential before an individual can be formally admitted as an attorney in South Africa.
This period offers an intensive introduction to legal practice and provides the hands-on skills needed to move from student to legal professional.
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What Does a Candidate Attorney Do?
The role of a candidate attorney is both challenging and rewarding. While under supervision, their responsibilities typically include:
- Legal research – investigating case law, statutes, and legal principles.
- Drafting – preparing pleadings, contracts, opinions, and correspondence.
- Client engagement – assisting with consultations and gathering relevant information.
- Court attendance – observing proceedings and assisting in trial preparation. As well as supervised court appearances under the guidance of their principal/instructing attorney.
- Case and file management – organising documentation and tracking deadlines.As well as preparing files and documents for filing at court.
- Administrative support – managing filings, schedules, and communications.
These duties are designed to sharpen legal reasoning, communication, and ethical decision-making in a real-world environment.
Duration and Requirements
The standard duration for articles of clerkship is two years. However, this can be shortened to one year if the candidate attorney has completed a Practical Legal Training (PLT) course approved by the LPC.
To become an admitted attorney in South Africa, a candidate attorney must:
- Hold an LLB degree (4 year degree) from a recognised institution.
- Complete articles of clerkship.
- Pass the Attorney’s Admission Examination, which covers:
- Practice and Procedure
- Wills and Estates
- Legal Ethics and Contracts
- Legal Accounting
- Be deemed a fit and proper person by the court.
Once these steps are completed, they can apply for admission to the High Court and register with the LPC to begin practising.
The Role of the Supervising Attorney
Supervising attorneys play a crucial mentorship role. They are responsible for:
- Assigning meaningful legal tasks.
- Providing feedback and professional development.
- Ensuring the candidate attorney gains exposure to multiple areas of law.
- Upholding ethical and professional standards in training.
A positive supervisory relationship can shape not only a candidate attorney’s skills but also their long-term professional outlook.
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Building Your Legal Career from Day One
Serving as a candidate attorney is more than a training requirement, it’s a career-defining experience. This phase helps new graduates:
- Apply theoretical knowledge in real cases.
- Understand courtroom dynamics and client expectations.
- Discover preferred legal specialisations.
- Build confidence, discipline, and attention to detail.
- Learn how to interact and develop professional working relationships with other candidate attorneys and attorneys alike.
It’s also a key period for networking, which often leads to long-term opportunities within law firms, corporates, or public interest organisations.
A Competitive Landscape
In a country where over 6,000 law graduates are serving their articles at any given time, the legal field is highly competitive. Law students are encouraged to begin preparing early by:
- Seeking internships and vacation work.
- Attending legal networking events and webinars.
- Developing strong legal writing and research skills.
- Reaching out to law firms in their final year of studies to enquire about possible article opportunities and internships.
According to the Legal Practice Council, the demand for articles often outstrips supply, making early preparation and perseverance essential. It is also important to define your area of interest and to look for article work in a field in which best suits a candidate’s skills and interests.
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Final Thoughts
The candidate attorney journey is the bridge between academic learning and independent legal practice. It demands hard work, resilience, and a willingness to learn, but it also offers some of the most formative experiences in a legal career.
At VHT Attorneys, we are committed to supporting young legal minds as they step into the profession. We believe in mentorship, growth, and shaping a future legal community that values fairness, integrity, and justice.
Matthew Upton
Candidate Legal Practitioner
WHO ARE WE AT VHT
VHT Attorneys is a boutique law firm with a large vision. We provide innovative legal solutions with a renowned standard of integrity and confidentiality.
We help our clients:
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- Commercial & Corporate Law
- Labour Law
- Dispute Resolution / Litigation
