Parks Tau Approves Legal Sector Code to Accelerate Transformation in Legal Profession

Minister Tau emphasized that the Legal Sector Code is aligned with the broader objectives of B-BBEE and the GNU’s transformation agenda.

Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, has approved the Legal Sector Code under section 9(1) of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, aimed at accelerating transformation within South Africa's legal sector.

“This administration is committed to accelerating transformation, as guided by the preamble of the Constitution, which highlights the need to address the injustices of the past. This vision is embedded in the statement of intent of the Government of National Unity (GNU),” Minister Tau said in his announcement.

The process of drafting the Legal Sector Code was initiated by the previous administration, led by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, in collaboration with the Legal Practice Council. This comprehensive framework is designed to enhance transformation and achieve B-BBEE goals within the legal sector, focusing on ownership, management, skills development, and procurement.

Key B-BBEE targets set by the Legal Sector Code include:

Ownership: Achieving a 50% black ownership target, with 25% black women ownership within five years.

Management Control: Aiming for 50% black practitioner representation in executive and board positions, and 25% black women representation, particularly among equity partners and associates.

Skills Development: A 3.5% expenditure target on training programs for black legal professionals, including specialised training for black women, youth, people with disabilities, and those from rural areas.

Procurement: A 60% procurement target from the private sector and 80% from the public sector, ensuring equitable access to legal services and support for black-owned Legal Sector Measured Entities (LSMEs).

Minister Tau emphasized that the Legal Sector Code is aligned with the broader objectives of B-BBEE and the GNU’s transformation agenda. “The implementation of the code will drive inclusive growth and ensure fair access to specialised legal services," he said, adding that the sector's transformation will be accelerated through this strategic framework.

The Minister concluded by expressing optimism for the rapid implementation of the Legal Sector Code, which he believes will significantly contribute to the ongoing transformation of South Africa's legal landscape.