a.1 - Natal Law Society

AGM MINUTES - 6 - 12 OCTOBER 2012
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‣ The Competition Commission in an attempt to address issues of concern but also to
improve the relations between the Commission and the profession. A process has
been established that would allow for any disputes that may arise from the manner in
which attorneys may practice which could be in violation of competition principles to
be dealt with in a more conciliatory manner, the LSSA acting as the link to the
Competition Commission.
‣ Constituent members to settle the Uniform Rules which draft is close to finalisation.
Govender encouraged members to consider the proposed Rules and to approve same
in the interest of the profession advancing its own Rules as opposed to having Rules
imposed upon the profession by a Legal Practice Council as envisaged in the Legal
Practice Bill.
Govender expressed the view that, amongst the many challenges faced by lawyers is the
lack of work, add to that the increased competition for that work. He added that there is
very little respect for ethics and anyone who wants to pursue an ethical course is standing in
the way of somebody who wants to enrich themself at all costs. Govender alluded to his
attendance at the 2012 IBA Conference at which 5000 lawyers from across the world where
in attendance but of which only about 100 lawyers attended the meeting on ethics, on the
rule of law, on poverty, on socio-economic changes.
The Co-Chairperson concluded by stating that lawyers have played a significant role in terms
of the transformation of the country from an undemocratic institution or system to one that
is one of the best democracies that there is, but it needs to be effective on the ground and
for the majority of the people in a meaningful way and not just in a beautifully well-written
Constitution with a very powerful Bill of Rights. Leaders in the profession have played an
integral part in the Country’s transformation and lawyers have been seen to be the voice of
the voiceless. It is incumbent upon lawyers therefore to continue to question and debate
issues and play an active role in society.
Discussion:
There being no discussion the President thanked the Co-Chairperson for his report.
ATTORNEYS INSURANCE INDEMNITY FIDELITY FUND (AIIF)
The meeting noted the written report by Alan Peters, the Chairperson of the Attorneys
insurance Indemnity Fund who was unable to attend, was tabled.
The President advised the Meeting that Thomas Harban, General Manager of the AIIF was in
attendance to address the Meeting.