Browsing: court experience

A first court appearance is a defining moment in any young legal practitioner’s journey. For UNISA Law Clinic candidate legal practitioner Thula Mathonsi, the milestone reflects preparation, mentorship and the transition from legal theory into real courtroom practice.

Advocate Moafrika Wa Maila reflects on their first 2026 Gauteng North High Court appearance, sharing the excitement, mentorship from senior counsel, and the challenges of rigorous questioning in court.

In this opinion piece, defence counsel Moafrika Wa Maila shares a deeply personal reflection on a five day murder trial in Bloemfontein, revealing how courtroom moments can heal or wound everyone involved, including the lawyer.