STUDENT FEEDBACK | PRACTICAL LAW (PRR) 400

 

Class of 2023

***

The Law Clinic has easily been the best part of studying towards my LLB degree. It offered me an opportunity to develop the practical skills necessary to understand how the South African Legal system works so that I can be prepared to enter into practice.

- Gregory Barnett

 

 

The UPLC brought immense exposure to the practical side of law and taught me loads! I am so grateful for being able to have been part of this as it prepared me to commence with my journey as a future legal practitioner

- Marco Hoogenraad-Vermaak

When signing up for practical law there is no expectation that you can set that will not be blown out of the water. Practical law is unlike any model you'll ever do at varsity and be grateful for that. It is hard, do not expect an easy year but I am beyond grateful I took this module. In my first week of vac work at a law firm, I had practically used everything that was taught to me during the course of the year in practical law. My consultation skills with clients made me stand out, I had basic drafting skills and this was all noticed. You will stand out because you will have somewhat of an idea of what you are doing. Just know you will put yourself in good stead when you take this module.

- Tove Moreau

The module was very challenging and a big adjustment. I am happy that I took PRR400 as am elective because it really got me to step out of my comfort zone. My overall experience is a 10/10 because I learned a lot of skills which are useful for the working world

- Boipelo Duiker

 

Law Clinic has been invaluable in bridging theory and practice, allowing me to apply five years of learning to real-life cases. This experience has boosted my confidence in pursuing a future in law, emphasizing that learning is a continuous process of doing and growing. I would like to extend a special acknowledgement and gratitude to the supervising attorneys who guided and supported me at every step, making the Law Clinic experience truly enriching and insightful.

- Natasha Bekker

 

Practical law seemed very daunting at first, there is always self-doubt as to whether you are smart and equipped enough after 3 years of study to practically apply your knowledge. This doubt was quickly extinguished through the incredible leadership, knowledge and patience that the UPLC’s supervising attorneys used to make me fit for practice. I left the module will an increased confidence in my abilities to practically apply the law and with a warm heart, knowing that through this elective, one can be a catalyst to meaningful change in the lives of people that rely on the UPLC when there is no other place to turn for legal assistance.

- Josua Loots

 

The practical law module has been one of the most challenging yet invaluable experiences of my legal studies. From the client consultations to the drafting, the practical nature of the module has offered an immersive experience into the application of the law, the people/client aspect as well as the importance of collaboration in the law through the group work element. The staff at the clinic have been some of the most hard working and kindest people I have come to meet and this work ethic fosters a positive and supportive learning environment. Lastly, I am grateful for the module's contribution to my personal growth and sense of fulfilment in that we contributed to the community by assisting members of society who cannot afford legal services.

- Tlotlang Seabo

 

PRR 400 has been one of the most rewarding modules of my university career. I highly recommend taking this module if you are looking to gain practical experience through hands-on work as opposed to learning it in a textbook as we so often do. By taking this module I learned how to draft, effectively consult with clients, and how to manage my time better.  Moreover, through working with and getting to know my firm members I know I have made friendships that will last a lifetime.

- Shayna Toye

 

Participating in PRR 400 has given me the tools to confidently enter my legal career, by providing me with practical experience of theoretical concepts. It not only prepared me for my future endeavours, but it also opened the door to new friendships, and I will always remember my time in the module.

- Michaela Schmid

 

The law clinic has been an amazing learning experience. It allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge, while also providing a safe space for personal growth in law and enhancing my interpersonal and communication skills.

- Karen Klufio

 

The University of Pretoria Law Clinic has taught me to be confident in my abilities as an aspiring legal practitioner. It has truly put the theory taught to me by UP into practice and as a result, had expanded on this knowledge a great deal. I highly recommend PRR400 to every final year LLB student.

- Naomi Engelbrecht

 

Being part of the UPLC has impacted me in so many ways. It has taught me to be accountable and most importantly to always apply myself to getting the work done. More than anything what makes it more satisfying to be part of the UPLC is the fact that I am able to give back to the community.

- Reabetswe Kgaile

 

It is one thing to study the law, but it is an entirely different experience when you are learning to put that theory into practice. Dealing with real people facing real challenges has been immensely rewarding and gives one a sense of fulfilment. Above all, the continuous learning I am exposed to has been enriching.

-Xoli Masemola

 

For me, Practical Law 400 has been an eyeopener and learning curve of whether I would like to venture into practice or not with my law degree, and it is safe to say with the experience and exposure I got I can't think of anything else rather than practicing what I love as well as helping and uplifting our fellow members of the community

- Makoma Sharon Maowasha

 

PRR 400 has been invaluable in providing me with the legal knowledge and skills I need for my future as a legal practitioner. I will continue to use these going forward into my career, and will forever cherish the friendships I made along the way.

- Michaela Schmid

 

The only source of knowledge is experience~ Albert Einstein. Being a student councillor at the law clinic has been one of the greatest learning experiences, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It helped put theory of my LLB degree into practice, preparing me for what to expect in the working environment and I have made new friends while at it.

- Melon Chauke

 

Being at the Law Clinic game me a good platform of not only exploring my interests in legal practice but, real life challenges that help curb mistakes one would commit while at entry stage of their practice. It's a platform that keeps you ahead and helps uphold the most important skill of a good lawyer: being pedantic and open-minded.

- Ronewa Khakhu

 

I enjoy working at the law clinic, especially consulting with clients. It has granted me with the opportunity to see how our justice system works beyond the classroom.

- Namhla Nunu

 

Being part of the UPLC has been an amazing experience, offering practical experience with live clients and more in-depth understanding on how the law functions in practice. The most valuable part of being part of the UPLC has been helping the community which surrounds the University by offering free legal aid.

- Mduduzi Mathebula

 

Class of 2022

***

We signed up for PRR as law students. We are leaving as young legal professionals. # Thank You UP Law Clinic !

- Class of 2022

 

Dear Frik, Thank you for teaching me how to think like a lawyer.

- Kgakgathu Moloto

 

Dear Sam, We look forward to putting what we learnt into practice. We know that it will be invaluable for next year and who better to have taught us than an absolute legend!

- obo Firm 4

 

Dear Frik, Thank you for your guidence and faith you had in us throughout the year. You made us believe that lawyers have heart and spirit.

- Ole Masenya

 

Dear Sam, Thank you for allowing us to experience the practical side of the law and for all the great memories we made as Firm 6.

Katlego Moloisana

 

Dear Frik, Thanks for putting up with all of our questions. We reallt learnt alot.

- obo Firm 7

 

Dear Sam, Thank you for the opportunity to learn and grow from an absoute legend. You are a master at your craft and it was a pleasure to be your student!

- Brandon Ball

 

Dear Frik, Thank you for all the guidence and assistance throughout this year. I really enjoyed the experience.

- Teneille de Villiers

 

Dear Sam, Now I can say I am ready to face the world. Thank you for building me and preparing me while being patient all the way. You're "it's ok" when I was clueless kept me going.

- Millicent Sambo

 

Dear Frik, Thank you for being a great supervisor and equipping me with both theoretical and practical knowledge for articles next year.

- Micaela Ferreira

 

Dear Sam, Thank you for being understanding and for correcting me when I was wrong in the kindest way possible. This entire experience has been invaluable. Thank you.

- Tamanda Chimwendo

 

Class of 2021

***

Best learning experience at the Faculty of Law!

Practical law was at the same time extremely stressful and exciting

My law clinic experience was phenomenal

I enjoyed this journey and I am 100% sure that I will use what I have learnt during Practical Law in practice

Practical Law was an exhilarating & refreshing experience

I believe this module has assisted me the most in my whole university career

I had a very good PRR experience - I think it was especially important during COVID to have the connection that we were able to form

I learnt so much and would highly, highly recommend this elective module. The exposure gained is invaluable and will definitely help in the future with practical vocational training.

I really had a great time and it was so nice to have a hands on experience with the law.

I really enjoyed how it made all the theory I have learnt, visual

The practical law module has never ceased to develop my knowledge and skills. It is constant growth

loved every moment of this module

The approach to law was fresh, relevant and on a whole different practical level than many other modules. I wish more students looking to do their articles could do PRR.

If my LLB degree was a boat, Practical Law would be the sail that gave the boat direction. The theoretical knowledge that I have acquired throughout my four years of studying is the wind required to move the boat, however Practical Law formed the sail that allowed the wind to propel me in my desired direction

I believe that by being a practical law student, I am far ahead of my fellow students when it comes to putting the law into practice

An amazing educational and practical experience, very fun collaborative work with supervisors and firm members.

Best module the University has to offer!

It was very interesting and also very challenging

 

Class of 2020

***

‘Nothing ever becomes real ‘till it is experienced.’
(John Keats)

Practical Law will alter your perception of the law and transform your reality, every experience will broaden your horizons - embrace it.

-Lara Dreyer

 

Being a part of the clinic has been incredibly fulfilling. If you are keen to take your legal education to the next level in a dynamic, exciting, and friendly environment, this is it.

-Emmanuel Olusegun

 

Practical law is truly an enriching experience.

My time in the law clinic is where my passion and desire to practice law was rekindled.

The experience of helping people in need is the most rewarding part of this module.

-Aatika Darmalingam

 

Theoretical approaches have their place and are, I suppose, essential but a theory must be tempered with reality. I could not agree more with this statement by Jawaharlal Nehru. Law clinic is the only module where you will get practical experience which will prepare you to be a candidate attorney.

-Karli du Preez

Practical law may seem intimidating, but the change to applying what you have learned can be a very refreshing, enriching experience. Welcome to PRR. Now get to work.

-Kurt Varcoe

 

The following words by Maya Angelou depicts very closely to what you will get at Law Clinic:

It goes like this: “Ask what you want and be prepared to get it.”

I joined Law Clinic with a huge doubt regarding if I’m doing the right thing.

I can tell you today that I got what I asked for:

I got information, I got experience,

I made unexpected friends,

I got challenges as well as disappointments (luckily that was the minimum),

I received warmth, and kindness and laughter…oh yes!

It was an awesome experience, learning a LOT….(don’t forget the blood sweat and tears),

It was great to have walked the walk with our supervisor, Frik.

Frik and Sam were always prepared to the core, Thank you, thank you, thank you Attorneys of 2020 (Sam always called us “class of 2020”),

This was probably the best experience that I could ever ask for.

I got what I asked for AND MORE.

-Elsabe Roets

 

It's about time you put your theory into practice. And what better way to do so in helping those who can't afford to get legal assistance.

-Nqobile Madida

 

Law Clinic has been an eye-opening experience for me.

In my opinion, it has been one of the most valuable law modules that I have taken in my university career. Having said that, it is an intimidating and daunting module which has challenged me on a personal level. I believe that Law Clinic develops and prepares the law student for what is to be expected in practice one day. I have grown so much as an individual by interacting with different people and developing my interpersonal skills, simultaneously challenging myself to step out of my comfort zone. Further, I have learned skills such as drafting documents and relevant court processes through practical undertakings. Admittedly, it is not only one of the most time-consuming modules I have taken but challenging. However, I would not want it any other way. I am so grateful that I took Law Clinic as I feel that it has prepared me for what is to come next year when doing articles. It has become one of my favourite modules and I thoroughly have enjoyed challenging myself and gaining a better understanding of what it means to be a lawyer, over and beyond just the theory, as well as adding value to so many people’s lives and helping them.

-Kristen de Wet

 

Suppose studying to become a lawyer is like training to become a chocolate connoisseur. All you've learnt thus far are its ingredients and how it should taste.  PRR 400 offers the chocolate. Are you ready to actually have a taste?

-Zander Morkel

 

Class of 2019

***

PRR 400 is one of the most rewarding experiences you can ever encounter in your University career. Not only does it provide you with the opportunity to help those in need who cannot afford legal services but it provides you with invaluable practical experience, something which is significantly lacking from the traditional subjects at University.

It will be stressful and it requires hard work but rest assured you will find yourself with a significant advantage over your colleagues‘- once you begin your articles. Work hard, apply your mind to everything you do and enjoy it and you will thrive in your first year of articles.

-Jarrod van der Heever

 

Clinical legal education is a legal teaching method based on practical learning. It encompasses formal and informal educational programs using practical orientation. It is based on problem solving and interactive learning methods. The practical work done by students on real cases and social issues are supervised by professionals. The educational work done by students assist them in developing their growth using practical skills and assists them in understanding the importance of the role of the socially orientated profession.

-Dineo Jacqueline Maluleka

 

Doing the PRR module was a lot of fun and filled with memories. It gave me the confidence and skills necessary to work as part of a professional team. No other module through my university career taught me the independence of mind and practical thinking skills required for articles. Even though I am now working in the corporate department at Macrobert the lessons learnt in PRR both theoretical and practical still find great application in my post PRR career. I’m in no doubt that PRR will always be the solid foundation upon which I build my corporate legal career even in future. Taking this module was the best decision I have ever made for myself both for my personal and career development.

-Brian Ramabele

 

Class of 2018

***

Having PRR is an incredible advantage when entering the workforce as you are already familiar with the inner workings of a firm. PRR also helped me gain confidence in consulting with clients and made the ‘real world’ seem less daunting.

-Stefanie Bezuidenhout

 

Class of 2008

***

Because of Practical Law, I found my calling

Law offers many opportunities, and as a law student I felt overwhelmed to the point of “analysis paralysis” by all the different avenues I could take after graduating. The pressure to choose the right electives only amplified this. I decided to take Practical Law because I wanted a chance to break out of the theory we had been immersed in for 4 years (I took the BCom/LLB stream), and get a real taste of law. The module exceeded my expectations. It was thrilling to engage with real clients, and the immense sense of responsibility I felt toward them was unexpected. Working in a firm taught me that we are only as strong as our weakest member, and this kick-started my lifelong journey toward self- and other-leadership. The lecturers were more than teachers – they were coaches and mentors, and I knew that they took their responsibility to train us very seriously because of the real impact we would have from the outset in our cases.

The greatest impact that Practical Law had on my life was to refocus my ambitions, effectively setting me in the direction that led me to where I am today. I started my final year with no clear ambition to practice law, but within the first semester I knew this is what I am made for. On the insistence of my then-supervisor, Lourens Grové, I applied for (and secured) articles at one of the big five firms. This turned the entire trajectory of my professional career. But for the opportunity to engage with real clients, solve problems, win some, lose some, and learn all the way, I may never have entered the profession, and I would have missed my calling.

If you are thinking of taking Practical Law, do it. Make no mistake – it’s going to be hard work, it will test your boundaries and commitment, and it will demand your best efforts. But it may just answer in the affirmative the nagging question that you are inevitably asking, “Do I have what it takes to be a lawyer?”

Danielle du Plessis

Director DDP Attorneys Inc

 

- Author Supervising Attorneys

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