WHY WERKSMANS?

The main reason people choose to build a career with our firm is because of the work we do and because we have many of South Africa's leading companies as our clients. What's more, the pace at which we work makes for a truly dynamic environment.

Our success is built on a solid foundation of insightful and innovative deal structuring and legal advice; a keen ability to understand business and economic imperatives; and a  strong focus on achieving the best legal outcome for clients. We are distinguished by the people, clients and work that we attract and retain.

We believe that we stand out from the crowd for several reasons:

AN IMPRESSIVE CLIENT BASE

Our client base includes major multinationals and corporations listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and other leading stock exchanges as well as many privately-held South African and foreign corporations and government institutions.

FOCUSSED EXPERTISE

We are a leading South African corporate and commercial law firm with two core business streams:

• Corporate and commercial legal services, handling transactional and regulatory matters
• Litigation and dispute resolution, undertaking litigation and alternative dispute resolution in the form of mediation and arbitration
  

We have developed a formidable track record in mergers and acquisitions, banking and finance, and commercial litigation and dispute resolution.

AN OUTSTANDING PEDIGREE

Werksmans was founded in 1917 and Jan S. de Villiers in 1908. We have a coveted reputation as one of the most prestigious corporate and commercial law firms in Africa. The firm boasts some 175 lawyers (approximately 95 of whom are directors) offering South Africa's leading companies with a well-balanced blend of legal expertise.

A BUSINESS-ORIENTATED APPROACH

Understanding business in general and each client's business in particular is a longstanding Werksmans strength, entrenched in the way our own business is run. We pride ourselves on being smart and innovative, on working in close collaboration with our clients and colleagues, and on remaining flexible and open to new ideas.

AN ENVIRONMENT RICH IN DIVERSITY

We strive to attract and retain the best people and provide an environment where they can develop professionally and build rewarding careers. As a result, we have an inclusive culture that's rich in diversity, acknowledges each individual's uniqueness and promotes respect and personal achievement.

A COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY

We are genuinely passionate about making a positive contribution in the communities in which we operate and offer pro bono legal services in matters that are of public significance. We encourage our staff to get involved in our social responsibility activities and to actively make a difference.

AN INFLUENCIAL GLOBAL NETWORK

We have strong and longstanding relationships with law firms across the globe. We were the first South African law firm to explore partnerships across the African continent and helped pioneer Lex Africa, which today is a network of leading law firms in 30 African countries.