Daveyton launches first legal clinic to empower community

Elation, clapping, and smiles filled the hall of St Mark’s Presbyterian Church in Daveyton on September 20 as the first Daveyton Legal Clinic was launched following 12 months of meticulous planning.

The clinic, which will operate as an NPO, aims to provide free legal services and representation to the vulnerable – particularly women, children, and indigent community members across the City of Ekurhuleni.

The event was graced by respected legal professionals, including advocate Terry Motau SC, advocate Jabu Luvuno, Annie Steijn, and others.

One of the visionaries behind the initiative, attorney Jennifer Rankeng, who was born and raised in Daveyton, said the idea of a clinic was born after seeing a need to bridge the gap for disadvantaged people who often cannot afford legal assistance.

“The legal clinic will empower the community by making them aware of their rights and providing practical ways to access legal services. We will ensure that marginalised individuals can navigate the legal system, which is often out of reach due to financial constraints,” Rankeng said.

She explained that the clinic will handle a variety of cases, including divorces, criminal matters, estate planning, and labour disputes. In addition, it will provide knowledge-sharing platforms for the community and practical training opportunities for law students completing their articles.

Rankeng emphasised that while the legal professionals involved will not close their practices, they will dedicate specific dates to assist the community.

Monthly workshops will also be hosted, each focusing on a different legal topic. Flyers and social media platforms will be used to spread awareness, with workshops and consultations expected to begin in October at the church.

Renowned advocate Motau, who grew up in Daveyton and is best known for leading the investigation into fraud at VBS Mutual Bank in 2018, delivered the keynote address.

Motau, the chief evidence leader in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, spoke on the importance of constitutional stewardship and pledged his support to the clinic’s committee.

Also present was Zola Mbatha, who runs a legal clinic in Soweto and uses media to educate the public on estate planning.

Mbatha shared insights on the work being done in Soweto and some of the challenges faced, before engaging with attendees who raised questions about their legal matters.

The Daveyton Legal Clinic can be reached on 084 379 5896 or by email at Daveytonlegalclinic@gmail.com.

Also Read: Unmarried dads: Know your legal rights and responsibilities

Also Read: Ekurhuleni reviews cemetery and crematorium by-laws