How Many Years To Become a Lawyer In South Africa

What is a Lawyer?

A lawyer is a person who practices law. The role of a lawyer varies greatly across different legal jurisdictions. 

How Many Years To Become a Lawyer In South Africa?

It takes at least 4 years to become a lawyer in South Africa. However, if you would like to become an attorney, you will need to complete a 4 year LLB degree and 2 years of articles for a total of at least 6 years.

At what age can you become a lawyer in South Africa?

South African law requires that a lawyer obtain a law degree, work several years in a legal setting and pass an admissions exam. You must also be at least 21 years old and a citizen or legal resident of South Africa.

Can a foreigner become a lawyer in South Africa?

A person must be a South African citizen or permanent resident and be otherwise fit and proper in the opinion of the court to be admitted as a legal practitioner.

How much does it cost to study law in SA?

The average cost of law schools in South Africa ranges between R32, 000 – R40, 000. This is all dependent on the law school a graduate chooses to attend. If you’re looking for education funding for your law study, visit here to get the latest law bursaries and scholarship updates.

Is it difficult to study law in South Africa?


We recommend that you study hard and try your best to pass within 4 years. This will help you to continue to the next phase of becoming an attorney in South Africa. Unisa also takes at least 4 years to complete. However, you may take up to 10 years to complete your degree.

Who is the youngest lawyer in South Africa?

University of Johannesburg (UJ) graduate, Thabang Kgabela Mathopo, became one of South Africa’s youngest advocates after obtaining his LLB degree in 2012.

Where do lawyers work in South Africa?

Possible work environments related to law

  • Courts (e.g. Constitutional Court, Supreme Court of Appeal, High Court, Labour Courts, Divorce Courts, Land Claims Court, Maintenance Courts, International Criminal Court (ICC)
  • Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
  • Government institutions.
  • Legal firms.