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THE HISTORY OF PITJE CHAMBERS
2005
2005
Ishmael Semenya (SC), André Bezuidenhout, Vincent Maleka (SC) Recognised the need to re-establish world-class chambers and facilities in the Johannesburg CBD
General perception:
Sandton attracted quality practitioners and the largely black members who remained in the Johannesburg CBD, were left behind to their own devices.
2006
2006
Semenya (SC) & Bezuidenhout proposed the concept to other practitioners
Modise Khoza (SC), Tshepo Sibeko (SC) , Mbuyiseli Madlanga (SC), Steph du Toit (SC), Riaan Jonker, Johan Kilian Chris Prinsloo joined the initiative to start Pitje Chambers.
At the same time, the establishment of the High Court Precinct (HCP) presented an opportunity to the private sector to refurbish, recycle and reinvest in properties.
The vision of Semenya SC and Bezuidenhout fitted in with becoming part of the HCP, which was extended to include the area where Pitje Chambers is situated.
Semenya SC and Bezuidenhout, with the support of Investec Bank purchased the building which was, at the time, derelict and rat infested.
They created the Pitje Chambers Transformation Initiative to offer world-class facilities to practitioners.
Pitje Chambers opened its doors with five members.
Several other Shareholders joined and the equity in the Company operating Pitje Chambers is now majority owned by black, practicing Advocates
2016
2016
Ten years later, with focus on meticulous maintenance, leadership and support to practitioners and the legal fraternity, Pitje Chambers has set a standard of excellence in the Johannesburg CBD.
Over the years, the core set of practitioners grew to make the Pitje Chambers Transformation Initiative one of South Africa’s leading Advocate groups, with a healthy reputation for competence in the legal fraternity.
A unique collegial spirit, leadership, support and world-class facilities, sets Pitje Chambers apart from the rest.
Adv. AL Platt (SC)
Becomes the first woman of colour to become a Senior Counsellor (SC).
2020
2020
Covid 19 Closes all businesses.
Pitje instates a state of the art e-court to ensure the integrity of trial conditions be met and e-courts can operate.
2021
2021
Advocate Albert Punch Sibongile Nxumalo (SC).
One of the first transformation candidates of Pitje Chambers is appointed as judge in the Northern Cape High Court.
2022
2022
Pitje Chambers celebrates a post-COVID time where it encourages practitioners to take hands and grow united in their diversity.
Pitje Chambers is a world-class legal institution located in the heart of Johannesburg's CBD. Founded by Ishmael Semenya SC, André Bezuidenhout, and Vincent Maleka SC, it is a testament to vision, resilience, and transformation in the legal landscape of South Africa. The Chamber began with five members and has since grown to be majority-owned by black practicing advocates, committed to empowerment and inclusivity. Pitje Chambers has adapted and innovated to remain at the forefront of the legal fraternity in the Johannesburg CBD, even amidst the challenges of the 21st century.
GODFREY MOKGONANE PITJE
GODFREY MOKGONANE PITJE
Godfrey Mokgonane Pitje was a figure of significance in the struggle in South Africa and went on to defend the dignity of ordinary people through the courts of law.
Godfrey Mokgonane Pitje was a figure of significance in the struggle in South Africa and went on to defend the dignity of ordinary people through the courts of law.
To honour his memory, some members of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates have launched the Pitje initiative.
To honour his memory, some members of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates have launched the Pitje initiative.
“We South Africans enjoy freedom and equality before the law because of the efforts of people like Godfrey Pitje in years gone by.”
– Thabo Mbeki
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