Unisa Practical Legal Training Courses

The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers Practical Legal Training (PLT) courses designed for law graduates who wish to pursue admission as legal practitioners in South Africa. These courses are structured to provide practical knowledge and skills, bridging the gap between academic law studies and actual legal practice. Students are prepared for the requirements of the legal profession through a combination of theoretical understanding and hands-on training.

Legal Practice Course (LPC)

The Legal Practice Course (LPC) is the primary PLT program at UNISA, tailored for individuals aiming to qualify as attorneys. It equips students with the essential skills to operate in a legal practice, focusing on key areas such as client interactions, legal ethics, and procedural requirements. The course is designed to provide practical insights into the day-to-day workings of a law firm, including tasks like drafting legal documents, managing client files, and conducting interviews.

Students enrolled in the LPC will undergo various modules that emphasize legal skills required in practice, including legal writing, research, and communication. It also covers the statutory and regulatory frameworks that govern legal practice in South Africa. This course is essential for those looking to take the first step toward their legal career and qualify for admission to the roll of attorneys.

Candidate Attorney Training

The Candidate Attorney Training program is a crucial component of the journey to becoming a qualified attorney in South Africa. This phase follows the completion of the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and involves gaining practical experience in a law firm or legal practice. The training is a mandatory requirement before one can be admitted to the roll of attorneys, as it ensures that law graduates have the hands-on experience needed to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life legal scenarios.

The candidate attorney’s role typically includes assisting senior attorneys with research, drafting legal documents, and attending court hearings. This training period is designed to develop core professional competencies, such as legal writing, client management, and effective communication. It also involves exposure to the ethics and responsibilities of legal practitioners, preparing candidates to handle the professional challenges they will face in practice.

Key Aspects of Candidate Attorney Training:

Practical Experience: Working directly under the supervision of qualified attorneys to apply legal knowledge.
Exposure to Various Areas of Law: Involvement in diverse legal matters, such as family law, criminal law, and commercial law.
Court Appearances: Attending court proceedings, drafting pleadings, and assisting with litigation matters.
Legal Document Drafting: Learning how to draft contracts, pleadings, and other important legal documents.
Client Interaction: Developing the skills necessary for effective communication with clients, understanding their needs, and managing expectations.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Conveyancers

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Conveyancers is a specialized program aimed at law graduates who wish to qualify as conveyancers in South Africa. Conveyancers handle the legal processes involved in property transactions, including the transfer of ownership, registration of property rights, and preparation of various legal documents such as deeds of transfer and mortgage bonds. This course is tailored to equip students with the practical knowledge required to manage property transactions effectively within the regulatory framework governing property law in South Africa.

This program covers several key areas of conveyancing practice, ensuring that students can navigate the complex nature of property law. The curriculum includes topics such as property registration, deeds of sale, and the examination of land titles. Students are trained in the practical application of these topics, with a focus on the preparation of legal documents and the completion of processes such as property transfers and bond registrations. The PLT for Conveyancers prepares students to manage their own conveyancing practices or work within law firms specializing in property law.

Key Aspects of PLT for Conveyancers:

Property Law Principles: In-depth understanding of property law, including the transfer of property and title deeds.
Deeds Registration: Learning the registration process for property transactions and understanding how deeds of transfer are executed.
Legal Document Drafting: Mastering the drafting of legal documents such as contracts, powers of attorney, and mortgage bonds.
Transfer Procedures: Gaining expertise in the procedural requirements involved in property transfers and registration.
Client Relationship Management: Developing effective communication skills for dealing with clients in property transactions.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Notaries

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Notaries is designed for law graduates aspiring to become notaries public, who specialize in the certification of legal documents, the drafting of notarial contracts, and the administration of oaths. Notaries play an important role in ensuring the authenticity of legal documents, particularly in fields such as property law, marriage contracts, and international agreements. The PLT for Notaries at UNISA provides students with the practical experience and legal knowledge necessary to undertake the duties of a notary public with competence.

This course focuses on the essential skills required for notarial practice, such as drafting notarial deeds, administering oaths, and authentically attesting to the validity of documents. It also covers the ethical considerations and responsibilities that notaries must adhere to in the course of their work. The curriculum includes a mix of theoretical study and practical application, ensuring that students gain a thorough understanding of the legal requirements and procedural tasks involved in notarial work. Graduates from this program are prepared to serve as notaries in various legal and corporate settings.

Key Aspects of PLT for Notaries:

Notarial Law: Detailed study of notarial practices and the legal framework governing notarial acts.
Drafting Notarial Documents: Mastery of drafting deeds of sale, powers of attorney, and other notarial documents.
Document Authentication: Learning how to validate and authenticate legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Administration of Oaths: Training on administering oaths and affirmations in various legal settings.
Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Understanding the ethical duties and professional standards required of notaries in South Africa.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Legal Advisors

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Legal Advisors is a specialized program designed for law graduates who wish to become legal advisors, often working in corporate, government, or nonprofit organizations. Legal advisors play a vital role in providing legal counsel on a variety of matters, such as corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and contract management. The PLT for Legal Advisors equips students with the practical skills needed to offer sound legal advice and manage legal risks within organizations.

This course combines theoretical and practical training to ensure that students understand the legal principles and regulations relevant to advising clients in various sectors. Key areas covered include corporate law, employment law, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. The training prepares students to deal with the day-to-day legal challenges faced by businesses and organizations, such as drafting contracts, negotiating deals, and managing disputes. By the end of the program, students are expected to have developed the analytical and communication skills required to function effectively as legal advisors in any professional setting.

Key Aspects of PLT for Legal Advisors:

Corporate Governance: Understanding the legal frameworks that guide corporate entities, including company law, shareholder rights, and board responsibilities.
Contract Law: Mastering the drafting, negotiation, and interpretation of contracts within corporate environments.
Regulatory Compliance: Gaining expertise in navigating legal regulations, ensuring that organizations adhere to industry standards and government requirements.
Risk Management: Learning how to assess and mitigate legal risks in business transactions and operations.
Legal Ethics: Understanding the ethical responsibilities of legal advisors in both corporate and regulatory contexts.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Tax Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Tax Practitioners is a program designed for law graduates who aim to specialize in tax law and become qualified tax practitioners. Tax practitioners provide expert advice on various tax-related matters, including tax planning, compliance, and disputes. The PLT for Tax Practitioners at UNISA offers in-depth practical training in all aspects of tax law, ensuring that students can navigate the complex landscape of tax regulations and assist clients with tax-related issues efficiently.

The program covers a wide range of topics, such as South African tax law, international tax treaties, and tax compliance procedures. It also provides students with hands-on experience in the preparation and submission of tax returns, advising clients on tax planning strategies, and representing clients in tax disputes before the South African Revenue Service (SARS) or in court. The training ensures that graduates understand the technical aspects of tax law and are able to apply this knowledge to solve real-world problems in a variety of professional contexts.

Key Aspects of PLT for Tax Practitioners:

Tax Law Fundamentals: Understanding the key principles and regulations that govern taxation in South Africa.
Tax Planning and Advice: Developing skills to provide strategic tax advice to individuals and businesses, helping them minimize liabilities.
Tax Dispute Resolution: Learning how to represent clients in disputes with SARS and other tax authorities.
Tax Compliance: Mastering the process of tax return preparation and ensuring compliance with relevant tax legislation.
International Taxation: Gaining insights into international tax laws, treaties, and cross-border tax issues.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Estate Administrators

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Estate Administrators is a course designed for law graduates who wish to specialize in estate administration, a crucial area of legal practice that involves managing the estates of deceased individuals. Estate administrators are responsible for ensuring that the deceased’s estate is distributed according to their will or, if there is no will, according to the laws of intestate succession. The PLT for Estate Administrators provides students with the practical skills required to manage these responsibilities, from gathering assets to handling debts and ultimately distributing the estate to beneficiaries.

This program focuses on key aspects of estate administration, including the legal processes involved in obtaining a grant of probate or letters of authority, the preparation of estate inventories, and the settlement of liabilities. Students are also trained in the drafting of important legal documents, such as wills, trusts, and estate reports. The course emphasizes the importance of meticulous attention to detail, as estate administration requires managing complex legal and financial matters. Graduates of this program are prepared to serve as estate administrators, either in private practice or within larger law firms.

Key Aspects of PLT for Estate Administrators:

Estate Planning: Learning how to draft and manage wills and trusts, ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are honored.
Grant of Probate: Understanding the procedures for applying for a grant of probate or letters of authority to manage the estate.
Asset and Liability Management: Gaining the skills to inventory estate assets, settle debts, and handle claims made against the estate.
Estate Distribution: Mastering the process of distributing assets to beneficiaries in compliance with the deceased’s will or South African law.
Tax and Financial Considerations: Understanding the tax implications of estate administration, including estate duty and the handling of any tax liabilities.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Family Mediators

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Family Mediators is designed for law graduates interested in specializing in family law mediation. Family mediators play an essential role in helping families resolve disputes amicably without resorting to litigation. Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process that involves facilitating negotiations between parties to reach mutually agreeable solutions, particularly in matters such as divorce, child custody, and property disputes. The PLT for Family Mediators prepares students with the necessary skills to conduct effective mediations and assist families in resolving conflicts in a respectful and legally sound manner.

The program covers various aspects of family mediation, including the principles of conflict resolution, the legal aspects of family law, and the ethical considerations involved in mediation processes. Students are trained to manage sensitive situations and guide parties through the mediation process, ensuring that they remain impartial while facilitating communication. The training also emphasizes the importance of confidentiality, empathy, and impartiality in helping parties find mutually beneficial solutions. Graduates of this course are equipped to work as family mediators within legal, governmental, or private practice settings.

Key Aspects of PLT for Family Mediators:

Mediation Techniques: Learning effective mediation strategies and techniques to guide parties toward resolution.
Family Law Knowledge: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of family law, including divorce, custody, and maintenance issues.
Conflict Resolution: Developing the skills to manage and resolve conflicts in a constructive and amicable manner.
Ethics and Confidentiality: Understanding the ethical responsibilities of mediators, including maintaining confidentiality and neutrality.
Legal Implications: Learning how to navigate the legal implications of mediated agreements and ensuring they are legally binding and enforceable.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Labour Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Labour Practitioners is a program designed for law graduates who aim to specialize in labour law and workplace disputes. Labour practitioners play a vital role in advising both employers and employees on their rights and obligations under South African labour law. This program provides students with the knowledge and practical experience required to handle matters such as unfair dismissal, workplace discrimination, wage disputes, and collective bargaining. The PLT for Labour Practitioners equips students to represent clients in various forums, including the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) and the Labour Court.

The course covers key areas of South African labour law, including the Labour Relations Act, the Employment Equity Act, and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Students are trained to represent clients in disputes related to employment contracts, disciplinary procedures, and workplace rights. Additionally, the program provides practical experience in drafting documents such as employment contracts, settlement agreements, and other legal correspondence related to employment law. Graduates of this program are prepared to advise clients, negotiate settlements, and represent them in hearings related to labour disputes.

Key Aspects of PLT for Labour Practitioners:

Labour Legislation: A thorough understanding of key labour laws and regulations governing the employer-employee relationship.
Dispute Resolution: Training in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration and mediation, to resolve workplace conflicts.
Employment Contracts: Mastery in drafting, negotiating, and interpreting employment contracts.
Workplace Discrimination: Understanding the legal protections against discrimination in the workplace, including gender, race, and disability discrimination.
CCMA and Labour Court Proceedings: Gaining practical skills in representing clients before bodies like the CCMA and the Labour Court.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Environmental Law Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Environmental Law Practitioners is a specialized course designed for law graduates interested in pursuing a career in environmental law. Environmental law practitioners provide legal advice on issues related to environmental protection, sustainable development, and compliance with environmental regulations. With increasing global attention on environmental sustainability, this program trains students to understand and address the legal challenges related to environmental conservation, land use, pollution control, and climate change in South Africa.

This course covers a wide range of topics, including the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), environmental impact assessments, and the role of environmental law in regulating industries such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. Students are trained in advising clients on how to comply with environmental laws, representing them in environmental disputes, and drafting environmental contracts and agreements. By the end of the course, graduates will be equipped with the necessary skills to practice as environmental law specialists, ensuring that businesses, government entities, and other organizations comply with environmental laws and regulations.

Key Aspects of PLT for Environmental Law Practitioners:

Environmental Legislation: Understanding the key pieces of legislation regulating environmental protection in South Africa, such as NEMA and related policies.
Sustainable Development: Learning how environmental law intersects with business practices to promote sustainability and conservation.
Environmental Compliance: Mastering the legal aspects of ensuring compliance with environmental regulations in various industries.
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Gaining expertise in conducting and interpreting environmental impact assessments for development projects.
Environmental Litigation: Developing skills in representing clients in environmental disputes, such as challenges to pollution permits or non-compliance with environmental laws.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Intellectual Property (IP) Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Intellectual Property (IP) Practitioners is a specialized course designed for law graduates who wish to focus on the dynamic and evolving field of intellectual property law. IP law covers legal protections for creations of the mind, such as inventions, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. IP practitioners are essential in helping individuals and organizations protect their intellectual property rights, manage IP portfolios, and resolve disputes related to infringement. This course offers students the practical skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of IP law and provide expert advice to clients in various sectors.

The program covers a wide range of IP topics, including patent law, trademark registration, copyright protection, and the legal issues surrounding digital and online content. Students will gain experience in drafting patent applications, registering trademarks, negotiating licensing agreements, and handling copyright disputes. The course also covers the global nature of IP law, as many IP issues involve international treaties and cross-border considerations. By the end of the program, students will be equipped to handle the legal aspects of protecting intellectual property in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Key Aspects of PLT for Intellectual Property Practitioners:

Patent Law: Understanding the process of patent registration and protecting inventions.
Trademark Registration: Mastering the process of registering trademarks and protecting brand identity.
Copyright Protection: Learning how to safeguard creative works, such as literature, art, and music, under copyright law.
Licensing and Contracts: Gaining experience in drafting IP-related contracts, including licensing agreements and non-disclosure agreements.
International IP Law: Familiarity with international treaties and conventions, such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Commercial Law Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Commercial Law Practitioners is designed for law graduates who wish to specialize in commercial and business law. Commercial law practitioners provide legal advice to businesses and individuals in areas such as corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, contract law, and financial regulation. This program equips students with the practical skills required to advise clients on complex commercial transactions and resolve disputes that arise in the business world.

The course covers various aspects of commercial law, including the drafting and negotiation of business contracts, understanding company structures and regulations, and handling issues such as intellectual property in commercial settings. Students will gain hands-on experience in commercial litigation, corporate finance, and international trade law. Additionally, the course explores the legal aspects of business ethics, competition law, and dispute resolution. Graduates will be prepared to offer expert legal advice to clients in diverse business environments, from small enterprises to large multinational corporations.

Key Aspects of PLT for Commercial Law Practitioners:

Contract Drafting and Negotiation: Mastering the legal language and techniques involved in drafting and negotiating business contracts.
Corporate Governance: Understanding the regulatory framework governing corporate entities, including company law and directors’ duties.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Gaining expertise in the legal processes involved in corporate mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings.
Financial Regulation: Learning the legal principles governing financial markets, banking, and investment law.
Dispute Resolution in Commercial Settings: Developing skills to handle commercial disputes through litigation, arbitration, or mediation.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Immigration Practitioners

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Immigration Practitioners is a specialized course designed for law graduates who wish to focus on immigration law and related legal matters. Immigration law governs the movement of individuals across borders and includes aspects such as visa applications, asylum, refugee status, deportation, and citizenship. Immigration practitioners assist individuals, businesses, and government agencies with navigating the complex legal frameworks that regulate immigration. This course provides the practical skills and knowledge necessary to handle the intricacies of immigration law and represent clients in immigration-related matters.

The program covers various aspects of immigration law, including South African immigration policies, visa regulations, asylum procedures, and the legal rights of migrants. Students are trained to advise clients on the most suitable visa options, prepare necessary documentation for visa applications, and represent clients in hearings before immigration authorities or courts. The course also delves into refugee law, work permits, and residency requirements. Graduates of the program are equipped to assist individuals in gaining legal entry, residence, or employment rights in South Africa or to challenge unlawful deportations and refusals of entry.

Key Aspects of PLT for Immigration Practitioners:

Visa and Residency Applications: Mastering the procedures involved in applying for various visas, including work, study, and visitor visas.
Asylum and Refugee Law: Understanding the legal protections available to refugees and asylum seekers under South African and international law.
Deportation and Removal: Learning the processes and legal grounds for deportation and how to challenge such actions.
Citizenship and Naturalization: Advising clients on the legal requirements for citizenship and the naturalization process.
Immigration Appeals: Developing skills to represent clients in appeals against visa rejections or deportation orders.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Public Interest Lawyers

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Public Interest Lawyers is designed for law graduates who are passionate about advocating for the public good, especially in areas affecting marginalized or disadvantaged communities. Public interest lawyers work on issues that have a significant impact on society, such as human rights, access to justice, social justice, and environmental protection. This course prepares students to handle cases that challenge injustices, influence policy, and promote the rights of vulnerable individuals and groups.

The program covers topics such as constitutional law, human rights law, social justice movements, and the legal tools available to public interest lawyers, including litigation, policy advocacy, and legal aid. Students are trained to work in legal aid organizations, public interest law firms, NGOs, and advocacy groups. The course emphasizes legal activism, the power of the law to bring about social change, and the ethics involved in serving the public interest. Graduates are prepared to work on cases that address systemic inequalities, challenge unfair policies, and advance social justice causes through the legal system.

Key Aspects of PLT for Public Interest Lawyers:

Human Rights Law: Understanding the legal framework protecting fundamental human rights, including those outlined in South Africa’s Constitution and international treaties.
Social Justice Advocacy: Developing the skills to advocate for marginalized groups and address systemic issues of inequality.
Litigation for Public Causes: Gaining experience in litigating cases that affect the public, including class actions and test cases.
Policy Advocacy: Learning how to use the law to influence public policy and promote reforms in areas such as education, health, and housing.
Access to Justice: Understanding the challenges and opportunities in providing legal services to underserved communities and individuals.

Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Consumer Protection Lawyers

The Practical Legal Training (PLT) for Consumer Protection Lawyers is a course designed for law graduates who wish to specialize in consumer rights and protection law. Consumer protection lawyers advocate for individuals in matters concerning unfair trade practices, defective goods and services, consumer fraud, and the enforcement of consumer rights under South African law. With increasing consumer awareness and rights, this area of law has become essential in ensuring that businesses act ethically and that consumers are aware of their rights and how to defend them. This course equips students with the legal knowledge and practical skills necessary to represent clients in consumer disputes and to navigate consumer protection laws effectively.

The program covers key areas of consumer protection law, such as the Consumer Protection Act, product liability, and the rights of consumers in various transactional settings. Students are trained in advising clients on issues such as faulty goods, misrepresentation in advertising, and unfair contract terms. The course also provides a practical understanding of the dispute resolution mechanisms available to consumers, including alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes and litigation in consumer protection matters. By the end of the program, students will be prepared to represent consumers in claims for compensation, repairs, or replacements, as well as advocate for stronger consumer rights protections in the marketplace.

Key Aspects of PLT for Consumer Protection Lawyers:

Consumer Protection Legislation: A deep understanding of the Consumer Protection Act and how it safeguards consumer interests.
Unfair Trade Practices: Identifying and addressing unfair business practices such as false advertising, fraud, and deceptive marketing.
Product Liability: Understanding the legal responsibilities of manufacturers and suppliers for defective goods and harm caused to consumers.
Contractual Rights and Remedies: Advising consumers on their rights within contracts, including unfair terms and the right to cancellation.
Dispute Resolution: Gaining skills in resolving consumer disputes through mediation, arbitration, and litigation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the various Practical Legal Training (PLT) courses offered by UNISA provide law graduates with the specialized skills and knowledge required to excel in diverse areas of legal practice. Whether aspiring to work in family law, intellectual property, immigration, consumer protection, or public interest law, these programs equip students with practical experience that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and professional practice. By focusing on real-world scenarios, the PLT courses prepare graduates to handle complex legal challenges, serve clients effectively, and contribute meaningfully to the legal profession.

These courses not only foster technical expertise but also emphasize the importance of ethical practice, client relations, and the pursuit of justice in various legal contexts. Graduates are ready to engage in roles that demand both legal acumen and practical problem-solving skills, positioning them as valuable assets in the legal landscape. With the legal profession constantly evolving, these PLT programs offer the essential training needed to navigate new legal trends and opportunities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.