A User-Friendly Legal Website Empowers South Africans

From tying the knot or buying property to facing retrenchment or drafting a will, legal processes are deeply intertwined with everyday life. Even less common scenarios—like being arrested or defamed—require some legal know-how. Yet, most South Africans wouldn’t know the difference between a subpoena and sub judice, or an attorney and an advocate.

That’s where Lawyer.co.za, a free and user-friendly legal website launched in April, comes in. Designed to help everyday South Africans better understand the law, the site features over 400 frequently asked questions across various legal fields—including family, consumer, labour, and commercial law. Importantly, all the information is written in plain, accessible language.

The only legal jargon you’ll find is tucked away in a helpful “Latin Phrases Explained” section—a crash course in understanding common legal terms.

Why was the website created?

“Almost everyone will need legal advice at some point,” says founder Chris van der Maas, an attorney with more than two decades of experience. “By learning more about how the law works, people are in a stronger position to protect their rights. As a country that proudly upholds constitutional democracy, it’s vital that we make legal information widely accessible.”

What was the biggest challenge?

“It took two years to build, and the hardest part was translating complex legal language into something that the average person could easily understand.”

What does the site offer?

Visitors will find detailed information on legal topics such as divorce, property, and personal injury law. The site also hosts an updated archive of 275 acts of legislation—with new ones added regularly.

Is legal advice provided?

No. The site offers general information only—it’s not a substitute for professional legal advice. Visitors are encouraged to consult an attorney for specific cases, and the site does not promote or favour any particular law firm.

How is it funded?

Funding comes from advertising (by invitation only) and from law firms that pay for listings.

Are legal fees too high?

Legal services can be costly—especially if a matter goes to court. Party-and-party costs (standard litigation fees) are governed by official tariffs, which can be found on the website. These cover actions like drafting a summons or preparing for trial and are usually paid by the losing party.

Attorney-client fees, however, are separate and often higher. These include pre-trial consultations and are not regulated by tariffs. For non-litigation matters, attorneys usually charge hourly rates, which should be disclosed before work begins.

Can you negotiate legal fees?

Yes. If there’s no agreed rate, official tariffs apply—but clients are free to negotiate lower (or higher) fees. You can also ask if your matter can be handled by a candidate attorney (under supervision), which typically costs less. Legal fees vary widely, depending on the hourly rate of the attorney.

What if you can’t afford legal help?

Several options exist:

• Legal Aid South Africa provides assistance for qualifying individuals in criminal and civil matters.
• Many law firms provide pro bono (free) legal services as part of their community outreach.
• University legal clinics offer public assistance in most major cities.
• The Small Claims Court handles matters up to R15,000, free of charge (no legal representation allowed).
• Contingency fee agreements allow attorneys to charge only if you win the case—usually from the settlement amount.
• Organizations like ProBono.Org, Legal Resources Centre, and Lawyers for Human Rights provide widespread support.
• Oversight bodies such as the Public Protector, SA Human Rights Commission, and Commission on Gender Equality are also helpful resources.

What about legal insurance?

While legal insurance can provide some peace of mind, it’s important to manage expectations. A free legal hotline or basic plan won’t match the service of a dedicated legal consultation. Always read the terms and understand what’s covered.

How to find a good attorney?

All attorneys must hold a valid Fidelity Fund certificate—don’t hesitate to ask for it. Personal referrals from friends, family, or colleagues are often the best way to find a trusted attorney. Look for someone who listens and takes your concerns seriously. Note: in property transactions, the seller typically appoints the conveyancing attorney.

For Afrikaans speakers, an alternative version of the site is available at Prokureur.co.za. Another great resource is the government’s legal information portal: justice.gov.za.