Senior Counsel and Attorney Honours: Conferral Guidelines Amended

Posted 10 September 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category Justice

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Department of Justice & Constitutional Development has gazetted an amendment to the March 2024 uniform guidelines regarding the conferment of senior counsel or senior attorney honours on eligible legal practitioners.

In terms of the Legal Practice Act, No. 28 of 2014, the amendment modifies the composition of the committee appointed by the Legal Practice Council (LPC). This committee is responsible for considering and processing nominations before making recommendations to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services.

The guidelines remain underpinned by the principles set out in the preamble to the Legal Practice Act, No. 28 of 2014. These principles require that the Council, when making recommendations, ensures:

  • The legal profession reflects the demographics of South Africa;
  • High standards of professional ethics and conduct are maintained; and
  • The recognition of practitioners who have demonstrated exceptional skill, integrity, and experience in the legal field.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: You must ensure that any application for senior status complies with the revised committee structure and procedural requirements set out in the amended guidelines.
  • For your business: Law firms and chambers should update their internal professional development protocols to align with the revised Legal Practice Council nomination process.
  • For your clients: No direct individual obligations; impact channelled through firm-level compliance and the maintenance of professional standards.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/senior-counsel-attorney-honours-conferral-guidelines-amended

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