By Gina Hartoog

Attorney-client privilege is a rule that encourages clients to be open and honest with their attorneys and keeps communication between them confidential. The privilege extends to any type of case, even criminal cases, and includes the period before, during and after the trial. It’s a modern adaption of an old Roman law that was accepted into English law way back in the 16th century.

Court date

Anything you tell Alan Kissoon about a case is considered attorney-client privilege. Alan, an attorney in private practice in Pretoria, handles all aspects of the law from family matters and third-party claims to business and some criminal cases.      “The law is constantly evolving,” he says. “One needs to stay abreast of this by reading up on the latest cases and attending seminars. The learning doesn’t end when you get your degree.”

Attorneys don’t spend all their time in court. They may meet with new clients or brief current clients at the office, prepare new cases or do research on challenging cases. The attorney will determine the best course of action based on the facts and evidence. The case may not end up in court, but the attorney could be instrumental in negotiating a settlement or resolving the dispute.

Legally speaking

Ethics plays a big role in the life of an attorney. Alan says that according to the law, you need to be a ‘fit and proper’ person, without a criminal record. “You must also be a people person,” he adds. “Two other important traits are paying attention to detail and being strategically-minded in order to work out the right plan of action.” Candidates should also be organised, have good time-management skills and be flexible to adapt as circum­stances change.  Good financial management skills are important if you want to start your own practice.

Building

Alan started his working career in the South African Police Service. During his ten years with the Commercial Crimes Unit he completed his B.Juris, LLB and LLM degrees. He then took up a position at the South African Reserve Bank before taking a sabbatical to do articles for two years.

Six years ago Alan opened his own law practice and has recently purchased new premises. “Your biggest challenge is to satisfy your clients,” he says. “It’s always a good feeling when a difficult matter is satisfactorily resolved.”

On the flip side, dealing with difficult situations can be a little hair-raising at times and the occasional verbal threat keeps you on your toes.

Evidently rewarding

The work hours may be long but the advantages are many. Alan says the one thing he enjoys most about his profession is meeting new people and making a difference in their lives. “When a client comes to you for help and advice, he has a real problem and looks to you for answers,” he explains. “To play an important role in helping to alleviate those problems and bring your client peace of mind is worth the effort.” You have to be diligent in your studies and at the start of your career, but the financial rewards later are a good incentive to keep you going.

Closing statement

A legal degree can open up opportunities in many sectors, not only within the law but also in commerce, banking, mining and the retail sector. Even within the law opportunities are excellent as people’s rights will always be infringed and disputes arise in all aspects of society. “I would encourage all Grade 10, 11 and Matric learners to visit places of employment and spend time learning more about their chosen career,” says Alan. “If you have the qualities we have mentioned and find the law fascinating,           a career in the law is worth pursuing.”