Labour and employment law services.
Unfair dismissal, CCMA representation, and employment disputes. Tell us about your workplace issue and a legal professional will contact you to discuss your options.
Employment and workplace services.
From a first dispute to CCMA arbitration.
Unfair Dismissal Claims
Challenge an unfair dismissal. CCMA claims, reinstatement applications, and compensation negotiations to protect your job or secure fair compensation.
CCMA Representation
Representation at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration. Navigate conciliation and arbitration with skilled advocacy.
Employment Disputes
Resolution of contract disputes, breach of contract claims, and workplace disagreements. Protection of your rights as an employee or employer.
Workplace Harassment & Discrimination
Claims for harassment, bullying, discrimination, and unfair treatment at work, in pursuit of a safe and fair workplace environment.
Employment Contracts & Negotiation
Review and negotiation of employment contracts, severance agreements, and settlement terms, to help secure fair conditions and compensation.
Retrenchment & Severance
Guidance on retrenchment procedures, severance packages, and post-retrenchment claims, to help secure your full entitlements when leaving employment.
Our labour law process.
Six steps, from case evaluation to arbitration.
Case evaluation
Detail your workplace issue. A legal professional assesses whether you have a valid claim and outlines your options.
Evidence gathering
Collect documentation, emails, witness statements, and evidence supporting your claim. We guide you through this process.
Internal resolution
Attempt resolution through internal appeals or direct negotiation. Often faster and less costly than formal proceedings.
CCMA application
File a formal CCMA claim if needed. A legal professional handles all documentation, processes, and deadlines.
Conciliation & mediation
Attend conciliation meetings with your employer. Negotiation aims for a favourable settlement where possible.
Arbitration & settlement
If no settlement is reached, proceed to an arbitration hearing. A legal professional presents your case and argues for the best outcome.
Frequently asked questions.
Unfair dismissal, CCMA claims and severance, explained simply.
An unfair dismissal claim is a legal action when you believe you were fired without fair procedure or without a fair reason. In South Africa, employers must follow procedural fairness (investigation, hearing, opportunity to respond) and substantive fairness (a legitimate reason). Violations can lead to reinstatement or compensation through CCMA claims.
The CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) is South Africa’s primary forum for resolving employment disputes. Claims are filed, then go through conciliation (settlement negotiation), and if unresolved, arbitration (a binding hearing). The process is less formal and less expensive than court.
Yes, if the retrenchment was procedurally or substantively unfair. Employers must follow fair retrenchment procedures: a genuine business reason, consultation, fair selection criteria, and proper notice. If these weren’t followed, you can claim unfair retrenchment and seek compensation or reinstatement.
Compensation depends on your case. You may get reinstatement to your original job, payment of back wages, severance packages, or damages for emotional distress. The CCMA considers factors like length of service, prospects of re-employment, and misconduct.
From filing to resolution typically takes 2–6 months, though some cases can be faster if settled at conciliation. Arbitration hearings may be scheduled within weeks. The timeline depends on case complexity, CCMA workload, and whether both parties cooperate.
While you can represent yourself, having a legal professional on your side significantly improves your chances. They know CCMA procedures, how to present evidence, how to cross-examine witnesses, and how to pursue fair compensation.
Yes. South African law prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, and other protected grounds. Harassment claims include bullying, intimidation, or creating a hostile work environment. You can claim damages, compensation, or even reinstatement if you were constructively dismissed due to discrimination.
If your employer won’t negotiate fair severance, you can file a CCMA claim. An arbitrator will determine what’s fair based on your circumstances, length of service, and earnings. Often, the prospect of CCMA proceedings prompts an employer to negotiate seriously.
Protect your family’s future.
Tell us about your workplace issue and our legal team will connect you with a legal professional who can help you pursue fair treatment and compensation.
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