Law & Government
Lawyer (Attorney / Advocate)
You advise people on their rights and argue their case.
- Starting salary
- R12 000 – R30 000 (articles)
- Job demand
- Steady demand
- Key subjects
- English, History
What do they do?
You advise people on their rights and argue their case.
A day in the life
You research law, draft contracts, meet clients and sometimes appear in court.
Skills you need
- Reading and writing
- Argument
- Ethics
- Research
School subjects that help
- English
- History
- Mathematics or Maths Literacy
- Business Studies
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2LLB (4 years)
- 3Articles / pupillage
- 4Admitted attorney or advocate
Ways in: University degree · Professional admission. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Pretoria
- Stellenbosch University
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of Johannesburg
- University of South Africa
- University of the Free State
- University of the Western Cape
- Nelson Mandela University
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R12 000 – R30 000 (articles)
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R40 000 – R80 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R90 000 – R250 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Join debating
- • Read the Constitution's Bill of Rights
- • Practise writing arguments
Try this career
Pick a school rule you disagree with and write a one-page argument to change it.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.