F.A.Q
Frequently Asked Questions
Your most common questions — answered honestly, in plain English.
Below are some of the questions we are asked most often by clients reaching out to the firm for the first time. If yours is not listed here, please contact us directly — we are always happy to talk through your matter before you commit to anything.
You can book a consultation by clicking the “Book A Consultation” button at the top of any page on our website, by emailing us at info@nmincattorneys.co.za, or by calling our offices on +27 78 001 0649 or +27 84 368 8005 during business hours. We will arrange an initial appointment — in person, telephonically, or via video call — at a time that suits you.
Our initial consultation is intended to allow you to outline your matter, ask questions, and understand whether and how we can assist. The fee structure for first consultations is communicated to you upfront when you make the booking, so there are no surprises. Where appropriate, we offer fixed-fee or capped-fee arrangements for the initial meeting.
Our fees are calculated in line with the Legal Practice Act and the prescribed tariffs of the relevant courts and forums. Depending on the nature of the matter, we may charge on an hourly basis, on a fixed-fee basis, or — in qualifying personal injury and Road Accident Fund matters — on a contingency (“no-win, no-fee”) basis as permitted by law. You will receive a written mandate setting out the fee structure before any work commences, and we are happy to discuss any concerns about cost upfront.
It depends on the nature of your matter, but as a general guide we suggest bringing: a copy of your South African ID or passport; any contracts, letters, court papers, or correspondence relevant to the dispute or transaction; and a written timeline of key events. If you are unsure, contact us before the consultation and we will tell you exactly what to prepare.
Our attorneys appear in the Magistrates’ Courts, the High Courts of South Africa, the Labour Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal, and the Constitutional Court, as well as in arbitration forums, the CCMA, Bargaining Councils, and various tribunals. We also represent clients in regulatory and disciplinary proceedings before bodies such as the HPCSA, the SAPC, and other statutory institutions.
Yes. Although our offices are based in Pretoria Central, we accept instructions from clients across South Africa and routinely correspond with clients via email, telephone, and video call. Where physical appearance is required outside of Gauteng, we either travel ourselves or instruct trusted correspondent attorneys at the relevant seat of court.
In broad terms: an attorney is your primary legal representative — the professional you instruct, who manages your matter and advises you throughout. An advocate is a specialist court practitioner who is briefed by your attorney to argue your matter in court, particularly in the High Court and above. Our firm has admitted attorneys, and retains a network of trusted advocates.
Everything you share with us is protected by legal professional privilege and is treated with strict
confidentiality. We comply fully with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and have internal protocols in place to safeguard your information from unauthorised access or disclosure. You can speak to us openly — it is the only way we can advise you properly.
Honestly, it depends. Some matters — such as a straightforward property transfer or an uncontested divorce — follow a fairly predictable timeline. Others — such as a contested commercial dispute or a complex personal injury claim — are influenced by court rolls, opposing parties, and factors outside any law firm’s control. At the start of your matter, your attorney will give you a realistic estimate, and we will keep you updated as the matter progresses.
Where a matter falls outside our private fee structure, we will tell you so honestly and, where possible, refer you to Legal Aid South Africa, the relevant law clinic, or a pro bono service that may be better placed to assist. Access to justice matters to us, and we would rather direct you to the right help than take on a matter we cannot properly serve.
Get in touch with us at info@nmincattorneys.co.za or +27 78 001 0649, or simply book a consultation through our website. Every matter starts with a conversation — and the first conversation is the most important one.
Justice. Integrity. Results.
Nkopodi Mphahlele Inc. Attorneys