Operating in Gauteng and the Western Cape, and connected to an extensive African network, Werksmans has a 200-year track record in practising top-end corporate and commercial law in South Africa. 

Established in the early 1900s, Werksmans Attorneys is a leading South African corporate and commercial law firm serving multinationals, listed companies, financial institutions, entrepreneurs and government.

Operating in Gauteng and the Western Cape, and connected to an extensive African legal network through Lex Africa*, the firm’s reputation is built on the combined experience of Werksmans and Jan S. de Villiers, which merged in 2009.

With a formidable track record in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), banking and finance, and commercial litigation and dispute resolution, the firm is distinguished by the people, clients and work that it attracts and retains.

Werksmans’ more than 170 lawyers are a powerful team of independent-minded individuals who share a common service ethos. The firm’s success is built on a solid foundation of insightful and innovative deal structuring and legal advice; a keen ability to understand the greater economic forces of the marketplace; and a strong focus on achieving the best legal outcome for clients.

*Werksmans was a co-founder of the Lex Africa legal network comprising 26 leading law firms in Africa’s major economies.