This brochure outlines pertinent firm information relating to our history, transformation profile, CSI efforts as well as providing an overview of our 15 practice areas.

This flyer provides a brief overview of Werksmans.

Werksmans was a forerunner in recognising the importance of a comprehensive understanding of applicable laws, business etiquette and cultural practices when safeguarding business investments in Africa. The Werksmans' Africa Desk assists businesses considering investing in one or more jurisdictions across Africa.

The transactional and regulatory lawyers of Werksmans' Banking & Finance team have led the way with complex transaction types and financial instruments, previously beyond domestic reach that are now being used in South Africa, by facilitating ground-breaking transactions in both primary and secondary markets.

Liquidation filings are on the increase globally and in South Africa. The Business Recovery, Insolvency & Restructuring team handles all aspects of liquidation, insolvency and restructuring matters for a wide range of clients, including banks, parastatals, financial institutions, corporate creditors and liquidators.

The Competition Act affects every business operating in South Africa, and the serious consequences of contravention necessitate a sound understanding of its basic principles and access to the best possible legal advice. Our Competition practice is at the forefront of developments in competition law in South Africa.

South Africa's labour law framework is arguably more complex than that of most other nations as a result of the country's political heritage and the emphasis on protecting core employee rights, addressing low skills levels and advancing equitable representation in the workplace.

The acceleration of globalisation and rapid expansion of the enforcement environment has placed the private and public sectors under increasing pressure to proactively manage their exposure to economic crime and other risks.

Few matters cut deeper into the pockets of individuals and businesses than healthcare costs. Medical scheme fraud, reported to be widespread, has added substantially to these costs, as has the onslaught of HIV/AIDS.

Intellectual property (IP) is well established as a significant contributor to enterprise value and economic growth. It is essential for business to act decisively to safeguard this valuable, albeit intangible, corporate asset.

Few industries have changed as dramatically as South Africa's mining and energy sector. Once dominated by a handful of private mining companies, the sector has seen private ownership of mineral rights converted to state custodianship, a new-order licensing regime and black economic empowerment obligations imposed on local and foreign players.

Since 2000, rapid legislative change has swept the property market, affecting planning and development, land use, tenant debt, municipal services, transfer duties and deeds registration, among others.