On 11 September 2017 the North-West University’s (NWU’s) campus in Mahikeng hosted renowned practicing advocate, Carol-Ann Myburg, at a jurisprudence dialogue titled “Dynamics of Legal Practice with specific reference to the role of Advocates”.

Organised by academic and author, Prof Freddy Khunou, the dialogue is the first of many planned to continue this year and the next.

Prof Khunou explains that the dialogue is a platform for law students from the LLD, BCom and BA disciplines to interact with practicing professionals in areas that they have an interest in.

“There is an interaction gap between what students study in lecture halls of universities and what is expected or required of them once they are eligible to practice – either as clerks or pupils at the bar,” says Prof Khunou. These dialogues are not only a way to bridge this gap and inform students of the roles professions in the legal fraternity play, but also to educate them on the many varying fields of law.”

“It is important that students not only bury their noses in text books while at university,” shared advocate Myburg. “Participation in non-academic activities also provide the kind of informal education that shapes a well-rounded individual ready to absorb different circumstances, without losing sight of what is important. Law is exciting for those who are willing to work hard in advocating for those who often cannot. Equally, once you are committed to working hard, a career in law is very rewarding.”

Advocate Myburg graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Pretoria. Thereafter she joined the Pretoria bar at the age of 21. She is currently a member of the North Gauteng Association of Advocates. With 12 years in practice, she has branched into corporate law with her consultancy firm specialising in labour law and contractual and estate planning.

Advocate Carol-Ann Myburg addressing NWU Law students during a recent jurisprudence dialogue.