About This Course
The Litigation Skills Short Course is designed to build the practical competence and confidence of legal practitioners involved in civil litigation. It focuses on developing a strong understanding of pleadings and affidavits, demonstrating how clarity and precision in drafting can narrow disputes and prevent procedural prejudice. Participants will also gain insight into litigation strategy, including the effective use of mediation under Rules 41A and 57, discovery management, and the preparation of witnesses in line with ethical requirements.
The course further enhances participants’ courtroom advocacy skills by focusing on persuasive communication, questioning techniques, and professional conduct during proceedings. Through practical examples, case studies, and resource tools, participants learn to handle difficult witnesses, colleagues, and judicial officers while maintaining composure and professionalism.
Competencies Developed in this Short Course
This course is designed to equip delegates with a comprehensive set of skills and competencies essential for effective mediation. Below are the key competencies that participants will develop:
- Drafting Precision: Ability to draft clear, accurate, and compliant pleadings and affidavits that effectively narrow issues for trial.
- Procedural Compliance: Understanding of the Uniform Rules of Court and application of remedies for procedural irregularities, including amendments, condonation, and exceptions.
- Strategic Case Management: Skills to plan and execute effective litigation strategies, including mediation, discovery, and pre-trial preparation.
- Ethical and Effective Witness Preparation: Competence in identifying, briefing, and supporting witnesses while adhering to ethical boundaries.
- Courtroom Advocacy: Mastery of questioning techniques, courtroom communication, and persuasive oral presentation skills.
- Professional Conduct and Decorum: Ability to manage challenging interactions with witnesses, colleagues, and judicial officers while maintaining professionalism and integrity.
- Practical Application: Use of structured checklists, templates, and tools to ensure consistency and quality in litigation documentation and practice.
By the end of the course, attendees will be well equipped to navigate the litigation process with skill and assurance.
Course Delivery, Duration, and Effort
This short course is delivered through the SA Legal Academy online learning campus. The course is divided into 3 live sessions conducted over 3 weeks:
- Start Date: 07 November 2025
- End Date: 21 November 2025
- Live classes for hands-on training:
- 07 November 2025: 10h00 - 12h00
- 14 November 2025: 10h00 - 12h00
- 21 November 2025: 10h00 - 12h00
Who Should Attend?
This short course is ideal for legal professionals who engage with civil litigation processes or require a practical understanding of courtroom procedure. It is particularly suited to:
- Attorneys.
- Candidate Attorneys
- Advocates
- Legal Advisors
- Corporate Counsel
- Law Students/Graduates
About the Lecturer
Adv Lisa Thomas
A former criminal defence advocate and in-house counsel in Durban, Adv Lisa Thomas has seen the law practice from both sides. She graduated with her LLB, completed her pupillage and was admitted as an advocate in 2008. Her current area of interest is in alternative dispute resolution, specifically mediation. She is a maverick for humanity and ethics within the legal profession in South Africa with a focus on candidate attorneys.
Prerequisites / Admission Requirements
To gain the most benefit from this short course, participants should ideally meet the following prerequisites:
- Foundational Legal Knowledge: A basic understanding of South African civil procedure, legal terminology and the structure of the court system.
- Educational Background: A tertiary qualification in law or a related.
- Language Proficiency: Competence in English to engage effectively with court documents, case law and advocacy exercises.
Technical Requirements: Access to a stable internet connection.
Assessments
All formative assessments are conducted online. Candidates must achieve all competencies of the course. To achieve the course, learners must be declared competent in all assessments.
Certification
Successful completion (i.e. competence in all modules) of this course will lead learners to be awarded a Certificate of completion.
Curriculum
- Session 1: Pleadings and Affidavits
- Session 2: Litigation Strategy (including Pre-Trial and Discovery)
- Session 3: Trial Advocacy
For more information on what will be covered in the curriculum please download the prospectus.
About SA Legal Academy
Welcome to SA Legal Academy (SALA), a provider of courses to help you succeed in your chosen career. We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality training and support, to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up to date and ready to face the challenges of the modern workplace. Our courses are designed to ensure that you reach your professional goals and enhance your career prospects. With our experienced training staff and comprehensive resources, you can be confident that you will receive the highest quality of training from SA Legal Academy.
SALA is a Level 2 B-BBEE contributor, with 125% procurement recognition. Training spend on certain solutions can be allocated against the Skills Development element of the B-BBEE Scorecard through accredited and nonaccredited training or claimed through SETA grants. In addition, 25% of your Skills Expenditure can be claimed on non-accredited training or courses.
Course Fees
The course fee is R 1 148.00 and consists of:
Educational Resources
- Online Materials: Access a wealth of online resources, from e-books to webinars, enhancing your learning experience.
- Live Sessions: Interact in real-time with experts, gaining insights and clarifications on complex topics.
Learning Support
- Facilitation: Benefit from expert-led facilitation sessions that offer personalized guidance, addressing individual queries and ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
- Formative Assessments: Reinforce your understanding with assessments on different topics.
- Learner Forum: Engage in meaningful peer-to-peer interactions through our dedicated learner forum. Share insights, ask questions, and collaborate on projects to enhance your learning experience.
- Continuous Support: Our dedicated team is always on standby to assist with any academic or administrative queries, ensuring a smooth learning process.
Flexibility and Convenience
- Study Online: Complete your course and take your exams online, giving you the freedom to learn from anywhere.
Payment Methods
Debit / Credit Card or Instant EFT
You can pay directly on our website for an easy, secure, and instant transaction. During promotional periods, customers can take advantage of additional savings. This is the fastest and most efficient option, saving both time and money.
EFT / Bank Deposit
You can make a payment directly into our bank account using your Online Banking App, Online Banking services, or by visiting your local bank branch.
Your Company / Employer
It may be beneficial for your company to invest in training for its staff members. As there are financial and tax advantages for doing so, please speak with your employer or Training / HR manager about the possibility of paying for this training.
Third Party
If you have someone who is willing to pay for your studies, such as a parent or relative, they can either log in and pay on our website or they can pay via any of the payment options above on your behalf.
Payment Options
Option 1: Once off payment
- R 1 148.00
Corporate Training Solutions
At the SA Legal Academy, we recognize the evolving needs of businesses in today's dynamic environment. Beyond our standard webinar offerings, we provide tailored corporate training solutions designed to empower your team with the latest in legal and professional skills. Whether you're looking for online sessions or face-to-face training, our programs are crafted to ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
Drawing inspiration from modern training methodologies, our corporate solutions are interactive, adaptable, and focused on real-world applications. We prioritize hands-on learning, ensuring your team can immediately apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.
Interested in a bespoke corporate training experience? Reach out to us at [email protected] or call 012 941 0448. Together, let's design a training program that elevates your team's capabilities and aligns with your organizational goals.
Contact Us For More Information
Have any questions or need any assistance? Contact us today!
- Online chat through our website www.legalacademy.co.za
- Call: +27 (0)12 941 0448
- Email: [email protected]