At university you were taught Latin phrases and a substantial amount of case law, however,
you probably were not taught what to expect with the everyday realities of practising law, like
navigating the labyrinth of courtrooms or surviving your first appearance before a Magistrate.
Think of this as your survival guide, packed with practical tips, unspoken rules, and real-
world wisdom to help you not only survive but thrive in your articles.
1. Be Prepared and Organised
Always carry a notebook and pen when meeting with your principal. You will receive ample instructions that you need to remember and attend to. Do not rely on your memory without a notebook, by the time you get back to your desk you will not remember every detail of the instruction.
Always ask your principal if the task is urgent. Over time you will learn the turnaround that your principal expects with certain matters. However, in the beginning it is important to ask when your principal expects the work to be done.
Create a to-do list every morning.
Always note your matters in your calendar especially with the due date for the filing of pleadings. Once you have determined the due dates for filing, put these dates in your principal’s calendar as well.
2. Understand Court Procedures
A tour around the Johannesburg and Pretoria High Courts and the various Magistrate’s Courts is important to familiarise yourself with the locations of courtrooms and the relevant offices.
Learn the Uniform and Magistrates Rules of court so you understand the procedure of litigation. Always make sure you read the Uniform Rules and Practice Directives first to try obtain an understanding before you ask questions. Your principal will be pleased to know that you attempted to obtain an understanding before just seeking answers from them.
If you are appearing in Magistrate’s Court, always arrive early so that you can locate the courtroom in advance of the hearing. Do not be late for court, I cannot emphasise that enough. Dress formally and only wear appropriate court colours.
3. Develop Strong Research Skills
Use resources like Juta, LexisNexis, SAFLII, to research case law and legislation.
Read commentary such Erasmus and Henochsberg.
Bookmark useful legislation and case law for quick access when you need references, this can be done easily on LexiNexis. Try to sort each case under a field of law so that a specific case is easier to find.
4. Communicate Professionally
Always use formal language in emails, letters, and all documents. Avoid casual language even if a client is informal.
When explaining a legal concept to a client or giving them an update on the matter, stay away from legal jargon or Latin phrases. Keep it simple for the client.
Always communicate professionally with your principal and colleagues.
Maintain confidentiality at all times. Never discuss matters outside the firm, yes this means with your family members as well.
5. Master Drafting Skills
Learn how to structure affidavits, summonses, and notices to ensure compliance with the Uniform Rules of Court.
Proofread everything twice before providing your principal with the draft.
If you make a mistake, be honest with your principal. Do not try to cover it up. We’re all human, we make mistakes.
7. Be Proactive and Take Initiative
If you finish your task early, ask for more tasks or offer to help colleagues.
Volunteer to draft documents and do research before your principal asks you to do it.
9. Build Relationships and Network
Be respectful to clerks, registrars, and opposing counsel, these relationships can help you in the long run.
Attend networking events and stay in touch with university peers and other candidate attorneys, networking opens doors.
10. Take Care of Yourself
The legal profession is demanding, so manage stress effectively.
Take breaks when needed, eat properly, and exercise.
Learn to balance work and life because the burnout is real.
Articles is the most daunting and stressful journey that a candidate attorney has to endure,
however, it will be worth it in the end. The Fluxmans team wishes you all the best!
