Local governments, those which govern cities, villages, counties, and towns, are established and regulated by state law. Their authority in relation to other units of local government and in relation to state government rests ultimately on state law. Municipal Law is a unique field of law that deals with all aspects of the relationship between a municipality and a person living or working within (or sometimes only visiting) the jurisdiction of that municipality. It deals with aspects of property law, human rights law, housing law, electricity and water law, valuations law, public law, administrative law, criminal law, information law and consumer law. Most disputes in municipal law arise as an allegation that the municipality has violated the rights of a consumer in some way.
Where we act
Members of our chambers act on the full range of constitutional and public-law matters affecting government departments, statutory bodies, regulators, parastatals, municipalities and the private sector. Our counsel appear in the High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, Constitutional Court and specialist tribunals.
How we work
Briefs may be sent directly to a named member or routed through our clerk, who will recommend the most appropriate counsel by seniority and area of focus. Opinions, drafting, mediation, hearings and appeals are all undertaken on the standard JSA tariff with clear scoping at the outset.
Who briefs us
Our Local Government & Municipal Law members act on instructions from attorneys representing organs of state, listed and unlisted companies, NGOs, professional bodies and individuals across South Africa.
