The legal partner for your business

We believe the right partnership can lead to great things. The partnerships we cherish and value most are those we have forged through time and experience with our clients and, of course, our people.

We are a full service law firm consisting of more than 260 lawyers and with a track record spanning over 170 years.

We provide experienced corporate and commercial legal support and authentic, knowledge-based and cost-effective legal services for clients looking to do business in key markets across Africa. Our Africa practice brings together the resources and expertise of leading business law firms across the continent that have direct experience acting for governments, state agencies and multinational organisations. This combined experience across the continent produces an extensive African capability. We also partner with other professional disciplines such as audit, business consulting and corporate finance to provide a seamless and integrated solution for projects that have a multi-disciplinary dimension. 

We focus on a number of key sectors which are active and thriving in Africa, including Mergers & Acquisitions; Agriculture, Aquaculture & Fishing; Commercial Real Estate; Consumer Goods, Services & Retail; Energy and Power; Oil & Gas; Financial Institutions, Services & Fintech; Business Rescue, Restructuring & Insolvency; Government & State-owned Entities; Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals; Hospitality & Leisure; Gambling & Regulatory Compliance; Industrials, Manufacturing & Trading; Infrastructure, Transport & Logistics; Mining & Minerals; Private Equity; and Technology & Communications.

Transformation

We are a truly African law firm where transformation is about living our values and principles

We aspire to be a firm:

  • whose teams reflect the racial, gender, cultural and religious diversity of the people of Africa;
  • where men and women at all levels within the firm enjoy equal opportunities and treatment in relation to access to work, recruitment, promotion and remuneration; and

  • that creates a working environment that is sensitive to the particular challenges faced by previously marginalised groups such as women and black people.

What our people say

I love the open culture at CDH which has actively encouraged my growth as a hearing impaired individual and now a qualified deaf counsellor.

Charlene Holder, Administrator Read more
Charlene Holder

My message to women is that if there is no seat at the table, build a bigger table.

Megan Rodgers, Sector Head, Director Read more
Megan Rodgers

While professional networking may be daunting for most young lawyers (particularly those from underprivileged communities) you can start small.

Thandiwe Nhlapo, Senior Associate Read more
Thandiwe Nhlapo

Charlene Holder

Administrator

Charlene Holder

My time at CDH had been an incredible journey for me. I'm truly privileged to be part of CDH. I have learnt a great deal over the past four years and have received extensive training from my line manager and colleagues. I want to keep learning so I can demonstrate to the deaf individuals out there that we can work in any industry just as long as the respective entities provide us with the necessary communication tools.

Our deaf personnel have CDH's full backing and support. They consider our requirements, such as offering an interpreter at events or meetings. CDH really celebrates what is shared and different about each of us; it is one of my favorite things. It is the finest feeling knowing that I am finally treated like a normal person, there is no discrimination whatsoever.

Last year I decided to study to become a counselor for the deaf community because there are so many deaf people that have problem (GBV, depression, abusive, rape etc) and they struggle to communicate effectively with hearing counsellors. Since they do not know SL (Sign Language) and the deaf people do not have money to afford an interpreter. The average hourly rate for interpreters ranges between R500 and R800. Thus far, we have 3 deaf counselors (including me) in Johannesburg.

Being a counselor has been an eye-opening experience for me. I spent a year taking an online course (LifeLine). I have gained so much knowledge from this course that it has changed my life. I must admit, the course is difficult, it was really emotional. In order to properly assist others, one must first examine oneself. First and foremost, we MUST have self-acceptance and love. We also MUST be empathetic and willing to listen to others without passing judgment.

There have been a lot of deaf people reaching out to us and seeking assistance. Knowing that we can assist them, when necessary, makes us joyful. The fact that we can now assist deaf people genuinely makes my heart sing. My hope for the deaf community is that there will be more deaf counselors.

Charlene Holder

Megan Rodgers

Sector Head, Director

Megan Rodgers

I completed my articles at a top law firm in South Africa. Several years later I established a niche Oil & Gas practice on my own. I joined CDH in 2015 as a Director and Head of the Oil & Gas Sector. Being a woman of colour and being exposed to a big law firm as a Candidate Attorney influenced my decision to specialise in the niche oil and gas area of law so early in my career. 

I trained as an upstream M&A lawyer and, for the past decade, I have been fortunate to have a fulfilling and fast-paced career in this unique area of law. As an oil and gas lawyer in the upstream oil and gas sector, I work with frontier energy companies, major and supermajor energy companies, as well as national oil companies and regulators with upstream mandates. An upstream oil and gas skill set is cross-border and translatable, and I have had the opportunity to work on M&A transactions and oil and gas development projects in over thirteen countries, and across four continents.

My message to women is that if there is no seat at the table, build a bigger table. Embrace the discomfort and the inconvenience that comes with change and be your authentic self. Whether you are passionate about a new venture, or passionate about bringing about change or growing within your existing business, you must sign up for the inconvenience and discomfort that comes with it. Leap into the discomfort so that you imprint yourself on the world. You must plan to be there; work to earn your place and be prepared to fail. As you leap, remember that failure is a pitstop on your journey and never your permanent destination. The greatest lesson I have learnt on my journey is not to shrink away from my greatness or shy away from my imperfections, but rather to give myself permission to learn every day, to make mistakes every day, and to break down new barriers every day. Give yourself permission to live in the duality of your brilliance and your imperfections.

Megan Rodgers

Thandiwe Nhlapo

Senior Associate

Thandiwe Nhlapo

My journey began as early as high school when I was campaigning to become a LRC (Learner Representative Counsel). I suppose it was at this point where my teachers and family saw the passion for representing others and advocating for their rights and they believed that I would make a great lawyer. 

I then pursued a 4-year LLB at Wits. Thereafter, I immediately joined a law firm to complete my articles. I subsequently went back to Wits and completed my master's degree full time while working part time. At this point I was exploring a career in academia. However, I missed private practice and joined a different law firm the following year. 

I was recently selected as one of the eight African lawyers participating in the ILFA (International Lawyers for Africa) Flagship Programme. Earning a place in the ILFA secondment programme is a coveted position and for me has been affirmation of the work I have put in over the years. With each passing year it becomes harder for firms to select candidates as the bar keeps being raised higher. This year was particularly even harder given the limited places post the onset of Covid-19. I'm grateful to have been backed by CDH throughout this process, from the application process to placement and during my secondment. 

I was recently selected as a finalist for the 12th Annual Rising Star Awards. The awards have been established for the purposes of recognising, celebrating, and connecting young talented people who have a capacity for achievement and success and who contribute in an inspirational manner to the future of our nation. The winners will be announced on 25 October 2023. 

I believe that it is importance to build a strong professional network as early as possible in your career. You do not need to wait until you become a partner and have your own practice. While professional networking may be daunting for most young lawyers (particularly those from underprivileged communities) you can start small. You do not have to start networking with the CEO or CFO of the company (although possible), but you could start with your peers as they will become future leaders and possibly your clients.

Throughout this journey I have met great people that have shaped or had an influence in the professional that I have become today.

Thandiwe Nhlapo

Our Values

Our People

Our People

We value diversity and respect for the individual. We believe in teamwork for the good of the firm and our clients. We are an employer of choice and we believe in developing of our people to help them achieve professional and personal fulfilment.

Our Clients

Our Clients

We believe client satisfaction is at the heart of our business and we strive to achieve excellence in everything we do for our clients. We are committed to long-term relationships with our clients that are based on openness, honesty and integrity.

Our Communities

Our Communities

We believe client satisfaction is at the heart of our business and we strive to achieve excellence in everything we do for them. We are committed to long-term relationships with our clients that are based on openness, honesty and integrity.

2023

2023 Chairperson's Value Awards

These awards CVA recognise CDHers who live out our values every day.

George Monene
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to George Monene!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2023

Agnes Banda
Agnes Banda

Commitment

Tamara Mngqibisa
Tamara Mngqibisa

Personal Fulfilment

Desmond Odhiambo
Desmond Odhiambo

Respect

Gift Xaba
Gift Xaba

Diversity

Jennifer Andrews
Jennifer Andrews

Excellence

Emma Hewitt
Emma Hewitt

Stewardship

Laura Muchiri
Laura Muchiri

Client Satisfaction

Zimbini Songo
Zimbini Songo

Integrity

Jacques Smit
Jacques Smit

Teamwork

2022

2022 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Priscilla Madubela
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Priscilla Madubela!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2022

Gloria Mokgoto
Gloria Mokgoto

Commitment

Sharon Perumal
Sharon Perumal

Personal Fulfilment

Donlin Jaftha
Donlin Jaftha

Respect

Sammy Ndolo
Sammy Ndolo

Diversity

Stanford Williams
Stanford Williams

Excellence

Gladys Molwatse
Gladys Molwatse

Stewardship

Consilia Sicwayi
Consilia Sicwayi

Client Satisfaction

Tamara Mngqibisa
Tamara Mngqibisa

Teamwork

Abednego Mutie
Abednego Mutie

Integrity

2018

2018 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Stanford Williams
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Stanford Williams!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2018

Danelle Du Toit
Danelle Du Toit

Commitment

Gabi Mailula
Gabi Mailula

Personal Fulfilment

Xhanti Mtulu
Xhanti Mtulu

Personal Fulfilment

Consilia Sicwayi
Consilia Sicwayi

Respect

Kwadwo Owusu
Kwadwo Owusu

Diversity

Nkcubeko Mbambisa
Nkcubeko Mbambisa

Excellence

Karushka Naicker
Karushka Naicker

Excellence

Donlin Jaftha
Donlin Jaftha

Stewardship

Veli Mokhabodi
Veli Mokhabodi

Client Satisfaction

Claudine Primo
Claudine Primo

Integrity

Beverley Tshivhasa
Beverley Tshivhasa

Teamwork

Charles Makgoga
Charles Makgoga

Teamwork

2017

2017 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Clifton Ellaya
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Clifton Ellaya!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2017

Dada Mikic
Dada Mikic

Client Satisfaction

Tessmerica Moodley
Tessmerica Moodley

Commitment

Zola Mcaciso
Zola Mcaciso

Diversity

Ashley Pillay
Ashley Pillay

Excellence

Andre de Lange
Andre de Lange

Integrity

Kholeka Fakudze
Kholeka Fakudze

Personal Fulfilment

Beverly Tshivhasa
Beverly Tshivhasa

Respect

David Pule
David Pule

Respect

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Stewardship

Agnes Banda
Agnes Banda

Teamwork

2016

2016 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Calvin Mohlomi
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Calvin Mohlomi!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2016

Keamogetswe Keebine
Keamogetswe Keebine

Client Satisfaction

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Commitment

Lungile Gosa
Lungile Gosa

Diversity

Ashley Pillay
Ashley Pillay

Excellence

Michelle Preiss
Michelle Preiss

Integrity

Peter Hesseling
Peter Hesseling

Personal Fulfilment

Charles Makgoga
Charles Makgoga

Respect

Luzuko Sidinile
Luzuko Sidinile

Respect

Nomvelo Bester
Nomvelo Bester

Stewardship

Refilwe Moledi
Refilwe Moledi

Team Work

2015

2015 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Themba Madubela
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Themba Madubela!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2015

Aadil Patel
Aadil Patel

Client Satisfaction

Mandi Sabbagh
Mandi Sabbagh

Commitment

Katlego Letlonkane
Katlego Letlonkane

Diversity

Danelle Du Toit
Danelle Du Toit

Excellence

Neil Comte
Neil Comte

Integrity

Cassandra Potgieter
Cassandra Potgieter

Personal Fulfilment

Jacob Mokhele
Jacob Mokhele

Respect

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Stewardship

Jennifer Andrews
Jennifer Andrews

Teamwork

2023 Chairperson's Value Awards

These awards CVA recognise CDHers who live out our values every day.

George Monene
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to George Monene!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2023

Agnes Banda
Agnes Banda

Commitment

Tamara Mngqibisa
Tamara Mngqibisa

Personal Fulfilment

Desmond Odhiambo
Desmond Odhiambo

Respect

Gift Xaba
Gift Xaba

Diversity

Jennifer Andrews
Jennifer Andrews

Excellence

Emma Hewitt
Emma Hewitt

Stewardship

Laura Muchiri
Laura Muchiri

Client Satisfaction

Zimbini Songo
Zimbini Songo

Integrity

Jacques Smit
Jacques Smit

Teamwork

2022 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Priscilla Madubela
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Priscilla Madubela!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2022

Gloria Mokgoto
Gloria Mokgoto

Commitment

Sharon Perumal
Sharon Perumal

Personal Fulfilment

Donlin Jaftha
Donlin Jaftha

Respect

Sammy Ndolo
Sammy Ndolo

Diversity

Stanford Williams
Stanford Williams

Excellence

Gladys Molwatse
Gladys Molwatse

Stewardship

Consilia Sicwayi
Consilia Sicwayi

Client Satisfaction

Tamara Mngqibisa
Tamara Mngqibisa

Teamwork

Abednego Mutie
Abednego Mutie

Integrity

2018 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Stanford Williams
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Stanford Williams!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2018

Danelle Du Toit
Danelle Du Toit

Commitment

Gabi Mailula
Gabi Mailula

Personal Fulfilment

Xhanti Mtulu
Xhanti Mtulu

Personal Fulfilment

Consilia Sicwayi
Consilia Sicwayi

Respect

Kwadwo Owusu
Kwadwo Owusu

Diversity

Nkcubeko Mbambisa
Nkcubeko Mbambisa

Excellence

Karushka Naicker
Karushka Naicker

Excellence

Donlin Jaftha
Donlin Jaftha

Stewardship

Veli Mokhabodi
Veli Mokhabodi

Client Satisfaction

Claudine Primo
Claudine Primo

Integrity

Beverley Tshivhasa
Beverley Tshivhasa

Teamwork

Charles Makgoga
Charles Makgoga

Teamwork

2017 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Clifton Ellaya
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Clifton Ellaya!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2017

Dada Mikic
Dada Mikic

Client Satisfaction

Tessmerica Moodley
Tessmerica Moodley

Commitment

Zola Mcaciso
Zola Mcaciso

Diversity

Ashley Pillay
Ashley Pillay

Excellence

Andre de Lange
Andre de Lange

Integrity

Kholeka Fakudze
Kholeka Fakudze

Personal Fulfilment

Beverly Tshivhasa
Beverly Tshivhasa

Respect

David Pule
David Pule

Respect

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Stewardship

Agnes Banda
Agnes Banda

Teamwork

2016 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Calvin Mohlomi
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Calvin Mohlomi!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2016

Keamogetswe Keebine
Keamogetswe Keebine

Client Satisfaction

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Commitment

Lungile Gosa
Lungile Gosa

Diversity

Ashley Pillay
Ashley Pillay

Excellence

Michelle Preiss
Michelle Preiss

Integrity

Peter Hesseling
Peter Hesseling

Personal Fulfilment

Charles Makgoga
Charles Makgoga

Respect

Luzuko Sidinile
Luzuko Sidinile

Respect

Nomvelo Bester
Nomvelo Bester

Stewardship

Refilwe Moledi
Refilwe Moledi

Team Work

2015 Chairperson's Value Awards (CVA)

CVA recognises CDHers who live our values every day

Themba Madubela
The Chairperson’s Values Champion.

Congratulations to Themba Madubela!

Congratulations to our Chairperson's Values Leaders 2015

Aadil Patel
Aadil Patel

Client Satisfaction

Mandi Sabbagh
Mandi Sabbagh

Commitment

Katlego Letlonkane
Katlego Letlonkane

Diversity

Danelle Du Toit
Danelle Du Toit

Excellence

Neil Comte
Neil Comte

Integrity

Cassandra Potgieter
Cassandra Potgieter

Personal Fulfilment

Jacob Mokhele
Jacob Mokhele

Respect

Justine Krige
Justine Krige

Stewardship

Jennifer Andrews
Jennifer Andrews

Teamwork

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