Reporting a lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa means reporting them to the Legal Practice Council (LPC), which replaced all former Law Societies. The LPC enforces the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014 and deals with every case of attorney misconduct.
6 Steps of Reporting a Lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa
If your lawyer acted dishonestly, misused funds, or failed to do their job, follow these six exact steps.
Step 1 – Confirm That the Lawyer Is Registered
Go to www.lpc.org.za and search the Register of Legal Practitioners.
If the name or firm does not appear, that person is not authorised to practise. Practising without registration is illegal and should be reported immediately.
If the lawyer is registered, record their LPC number, office address, and province.
Step 2 – Identify the Misconduct Clearly
The LPC investigates professional misconduct, not personal disagreements.
Valid reasons include:
- Negligence that caused case loss or financial harm.
- Misuse or delay of trust funds.
- Dishonesty or false statements.
- Conflict of interest between clients.
- Overcharging or refusing to provide a fee breakdown.
- Breach of confidentiality.
List the actions that happened, when they happened, and what damage resulted.
Step 3 – Collect Every Piece of Evidence
Gather all records before submitting anything:
- Written instructions, letters, and emails.
- Proof of payments or bank slips.
- Court notices, settlement documents, or trust-fund receipts.
- Screenshots of messages showing failure to respond.
Number your attachments and label them by date. The LPC only acts on evidence that can be verified.
Step 4 – Write a Structured Complaint
Your statement should contain:
- Your full details (name, ID, phone, and address).
- The lawyer’s full name and LPC number.
- A factual summary of events.
- A list of attached evidence.
Avoid emotional or vague language. Use short sentences that describe what happened:
“The attorney failed to appear in court on 14 March 2024, resulting in my case being struck off the roll.”
That’s the style investigators expect.
Step 5 – Submit the Complaint Correctly
Send your full complaint to the provincial LPC office where the lawyer is registered.
Options:
- Upload via www.lpc.org.za (Online Complaints Form).
- Email or deliver printed copies to the regional office.
Keep your reference number — it’s proof that your case is logged.
Contact centre: 010 001 8500
Step 6 – Follow Up and Co-operate
After submission, an investigator may request more documents or ask for clarification. Reply quickly.
Check progress monthly using your reference number. If you move or change contact details, update the LPC so they can reach you.
If the complaint is accepted, it will go before the Provincial Disciplinary Committee for review or hearing.
Why These Steps Work
The LPC process is formal and evidence-driven. Complaints supported by documents, specific dates, and clear breaches move through faster and are more likely to lead to suspension or removal. Vague or emotional claims often stall.
Following these six steps protects your rights and helps maintain professional standards within South Africa’s legal community.
Practical Implications of Reporting a Lawyer in South Africa
Reporting a lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa (now the Legal Practice Council) carries real consequences for both the client and the attorney. Once a complaint is filed, the process moves through a series of investigative and disciplinary stages that can affect a lawyer’s career, licence, and reputation. Understanding these stages helps you prepare for what follows after submission.
1. The Intake and Screening Process
After receiving your complaint, the LPC logs it and checks whether it falls within its authority. Complaints about ethical breaches—such as dishonesty, negligence, or misuse of funds—are handled internally. Issues that are purely fee disputes may be redirected to a taxation of costs procedure instead.
At this point, incomplete complaints are often returned, so clients who attach documents and provide specific timelines are taken more seriously.
2. The Investigation Phase
An appointed investigator gathers all the relevant evidence. They may:
- Ask the attorney to submit a written explanation.
- Request additional documents from both sides.
- Contact witnesses who can confirm events.
If the lawyer ignores requests, the investigator can subpoena records through the LPC. This is why having receipts, emails, and written proof of instructions is crucial. The investigation focuses only on verifiable facts, not opinions or emotional claims.
3. The Disciplinary Committee Review
Once the investigation is complete, the file goes to the Provincial Disciplinary Committee (PDC). This committee reviews the investigator’s findings and decides whether the matter should go to a formal hearing.
If they find no evidence of professional misconduct, the case is closed and both parties receive written notice. If there is sufficient proof, the matter advances to a disciplinary inquiry before a panel.
4. The Disciplinary Hearing
The hearing functions similarly to a small court. The LPC presents evidence, the lawyer can defend themselves, and witnesses may be called. You, as the complainant, might be asked to testify or clarify details.
Possible outcomes include:
- A formal warning or reprimand.
- A fine.
- Temporary suspension from practice.
- Removal from the roll of attorneys.
For serious trust fund violations or fraud, the case is also referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for criminal charges.
5. Financial Implications for Clients
If your complaint involves missing or stolen funds, the LPC can help you claim compensation from the Legal Practitioners’ Fidelity Fund. You must prove that money was paid into the lawyer’s trust account and that it was not transferred or used properly.
The Fund does not cover losses caused by poor legal advice, but only by theft or dishonest conduct. For financial loss through negligence, a civil lawsuit is your only recovery option.
6. Long-Term Effects on the Attorney
Disciplinary findings are recorded on the LPC’s register. This means that future clients and firms can see if the attorney has been suspended, fined, or removed. Repeat offences can lead to permanent disbarment.
Even minor sanctions affect professional standing and insurance premiums, which is why most lawyers respond quickly when a formal complaint is opened against them.
7. Why Practical Understanding Matters
Knowing what happens after you report a lawyer allows you to plan your next steps. If your goal is disciplinary action, follow the LPC process precisely. If your goal is compensation, prepare for a separate civil claim.
In either case, presenting a complete and factual record gives your complaint credibility and forces accountability where it’s due.
South African Examples and Real Scenarios of Reporting a Lawyer
Reporting a lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa becomes more practical when you can see how it works in real cases. The Legal Practice Council (LPC) handles hundreds of complaints each year, and many of them reveal how clients can protect themselves when things go wrong. These examples, drawn from real South African patterns and public disciplinary outcomes, show what typically happens when a lawyer crosses ethical lines.
1. Misuse of Trust Funds – Gauteng Case
A conveyancing attorney in Johannesburg received payment from a client for property transfer fees. Months passed without the transfer being finalised, and the client later discovered that the money had not been paid into the correct trust account.
The complaint was lodged with the LPC, supported by proof of payment and bank statements. The investigation found that the attorney had mixed client funds with personal money.
Outcome: The attorney was struck off the roll, and the client recovered funds through the Legal Practitioners’ Fidelity Fund.
Lesson: Always insist on a written proof of trust deposits and never make payments into personal accounts.
2. Negligence and Missed Deadlines – Western Cape
A client’s civil claim prescribed (expired) because the attorney failed to issue summons before the legal deadline. The lawyer blamed workload and miscommunication.
The client provided copies of emails showing that the attorney had confirmed the claim was “in progress.”
Outcome: The LPC found the attorney negligent. The client pursued a civil claim for damages and won partial recovery for financial loss.
Lesson: Keep all written proof of instructions. In South Africa, missed deadlines that harm a case are valid grounds for both disciplinary action and civil recovery.
3. Conflict of Interest – KwaZulu-Natal
An attorney acted for both a landlord and tenant in a lease dispute, claiming to “help both parties reach an agreement.” The tenant later learned that the attorney secretly advised the landlord during the same period.
Outcome: The LPC found a breach of Rule 16 of the LPC Code of Conduct and suspended the attorney for six months.
Lesson: South African lawyers cannot represent two parties in a matter unless there is written consent from both. Even small conflicts can lead to suspension.
4. Dishonesty in Divorce Proceedings – Free State
A divorce attorney submitted a falsified maintenance agreement to the court to speed up finalisation. The opposing spouse discovered the changes and reported the lawyer to the LPC.
Outcome: The LPC conducted a disciplinary hearing and referred the matter to the National Prosecuting Authority for criminal prosecution. The attorney lost their licence to practise.
Lesson: Dishonesty in court filings is treated as professional fraud. Clients who uncover this type of conduct should report it immediately.
5. Failure to Communicate and Return Files – Limpopo
A client hired a lawyer to handle a civil claim. After payment, the lawyer became unreachable and refused to release the client’s documents when the case was transferred to a new attorney
Outcome: The LPC ordered the lawyer to return the full file within 14 days and issued a R15,000 fine for unprofessional conduct.
Lesson: Refusing to return a client’s file violates professional rules. Written requests and proof of payment help the LPC act quickly.
6. Overcharging – Northern Cape
A client was billed over R120,000 for a case that never went to trial. The attorney’s invoice contained vague entries such as “consultation” and “file review.
The client requested taxation of fees under the Legal Practice Act, and the LPC reviewed the charges.
Outcome: The LPC reduced the bill by 60% and ordered the attorney to repay the excess.
Lesson: Clients have a right to question fees and request cost reviews. Unexplained charges are a red flag.
7. Practising Without a Valid Certificate – Eastern Cape
A lawyer continued operating after their annual practising certificate expired. Clients noticed delays in case progress and contacted the LPC
Outcome: The LPC confirmed that the certificate had lapsed and issued an immediate suspension.
Lesson: Always verify an attorney’s registration status on the LPC website before signing a mandate. Operating without a valid certificate is a disciplinary offence.
FAQs – Reporting a Lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa
1. How do I report a lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa?
You now report through the Legal Practice Council (LPC), which replaced the Law Societies. Visit www.lpc.org.za, open the Online Complaint Form, complete all details, attach proof such as invoices or correspondence, and submit. You will receive a reference number to track the case.
2. What are valid reasons for reporting a lawyer in South Africa?
The LPC investigates serious breaches such as:
- Misuse of trust funds or client money.
- Negligence that causes case loss or missed deadlines.
- Dishonesty in court filings or client communication.
- Conflict of interest between two clients.
- Overcharging or refusing to provide fee breakdowns.
- Practising without registration under the LPC.
These fall under professional misconduct defined in the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014.
3. What happens after I report a lawyer to the LPC?
The complaint is screened, then assigned to an investigator who contacts both you and the attorney for statements. Verified cases move to a Provincial Disciplinary Committee hearing. Sanctions range from warnings and fines to suspension or removal from the roll of attorneys.
4. How long does the LPC complaint process take in South Africa?
Timeframes vary: fee disputes may take 3–6 months, while trust-fund or dishonesty cases can run up to a year. Clients who submit full evidence and respond fast to LPC requests experience quicker outcomes.
5. Can I get my money back if my lawyer stole from me?
Yes. File a claim with the Legal Practitioners’ Fidelity Fund, which covers theft of client funds by attorneys. You must show proof that money was deposited into the lawyer’s trust account and never paid out.
6. Can I complain about overcharging by my attorney?
Yes. You can request a taxation of fees through the LPC. The Council reviews the bill line by line under its cost assessment procedure and can order refunds for inflated or unjustified charges.
7. Can I remain anonymous when I report a lawyer?
No. The LPC must share your complaint with the attorney for a written response, but your personal information stays confidential within the disciplinary file. The lawyer cannot use the details outside that process.
8. Can I continue my case with a new lawyer while the complaint is pending?
Yes. Hire a new attorney and request your case file from the previous one. If the old lawyer refuses, report that refusal as a separate misconduct complaint — the LPC can compel release of client documents.
9. Where can I check if a lawyer is registered with the LPC?
Use the Register of Legal Practitioners at www.lpc.org.za. Search by name or province to confirm if the attorney holds a valid practising certificate. If the lawyer’s name does not appear, they are not authorised to practise in South Africa.
10. What if the Legal Practice Council ignores or dismisses my complaint?
You can lodge an appeal to the High Court. The court can instruct the LPC to reopen the case or impose a new sanction if the decision was procedurally unfair.
11. Which law governs complaints against lawyers in South Africa?
The process is governed by the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014, the LPC Rules and Code of Conduct, and related regulations on professional ethics, trust-fund management, and disciplinary procedure.
12. How can I contact the Legal Practice Council?
Website: www.lpc.org.za
Email: info@lpc.org.za
Phone: 010 001 8500
Provincial Offices: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Polokwane, Kimberley.
Conclusion
Reporting a lawyer to the Law Society in South Africa—now handled by the Legal Practice Council (LPC)—is not about revenge or frustration. It is a structured legal remedy that protects the public and strengthens professional accountability. South African law gives every client the right to question misconduct and demand justice when a lawyer fails to meet the ethical duties of the profession.
A strong complaint does not rely on emotion; it relies on evidence, timelines, and accuracy. When clients prepare documents carefully, the LPC can act faster, issue meaningful sanctions, and help recover stolen or misused funds through the Legal Practitioners’ Fidelity Fund. The system works best when clients participate actively, keep written proof, and stay informed during the process.
Honest lawyers benefit when wrongdoing is exposed. Each valid complaint helps remove those who damage public trust in the profession. For clients, it also restores confidence that the legal system still operates with fairness and transparency.
If you are facing a situation that feels wrong, do not ignore it. Check the lawyer’s registration, collect your documents, and contact the Legal Practice Council at www.lpc.org.za or 010 001 8500. Ethical conduct is not optional in South African law—it is enforced, and your complaint is the starting point that makes it happen.