Advocates Group 21 was established on 1 January 2000 by 21 members of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates. Having been established at the turn of the 21st century by 21 members of the JSA, “Group 21” was indeed a fitting name. The group ultimately settled into the Third Floor, Block B, Sandown Village, eventually renamed “Village Chambers”.
The need to embrace transformation was identified early in the Group’s existence, resulting in the formation of a transformation committee and the creation of a transformation policy to enhance and implement the transformation of Group 21 and to promote transformation. The Group acknowledges its continuing obligation to transformation. Its transformation initiative comprise of three core elements, namely continuing education, skills transfer, and outreach. It many years ago established a Transformation Fund aimed at assisting previously disadvantaged members in building viable practices.
Over the last 25 years Group 21 has grown significantly. Currently about 130 advocates call Advocates Group 21 home. The demographics of Group 21 changed remarkably from the original 21 members. The Group today boasts a membership profile truly reflective of the county’s race and gender demographics.
Group 21 has the privilege of counting amongst its alumni several judges, including Justice Lötter Wepener, Justice Portia Nkutha-Nkontwana, Justice Allyson Crutchfield and Justice Colin Lamont, all of whom are honorary members of Group 21. Group 21 forged a strong relationship with the Wits Moot Court Society and annually hosts the Group 21 Wits Moot Court competition, open to students from Wits, with members of Group 21 sitting as judges in the moot court competition.
Members of Group 21 are committed to the highest standards of professional legal practice and the maintenance of an effective and independent judiciary. Group 21 is affiliated to the Johannesburg Society of Advocates and its members subscribe to the conduct rules of that society. Members all practise as referral advocates and are therefore unable to assist members of the public directly.
Pianoforte solicitude decisively unpleasing conviction. Particular diminution entreaties.
Developed and Designed by Cameron Harrison
