Access to Justice
Free legal clinics and outreach providing legal services to women and vulnerable citizens across all provinces.
Est. 2006 · 9 Provinces · 600+ Members
The Voice of South African Women Lawyers
SAWLA is the professional home of women in the legal fraternity — from law students to judges. We advocate, connect, and empower.
What we do
Four Pillars of Our Work
SAWLA exists to close the gap between where women in law are and where they deserve to be.
Advocacy
A collective voice in policy, legislative reform, and gender transformation dialogue in the justice system.
Professional Development
CPD events, mentorship programmes, and leadership training for women at every stage of the profession.
National & International Dialogue
Representing South African women lawyers in regional and international forums on gender and justice.
Who we serve
Every Woman in the Legal Profession
From first-year law students to High Court judges — if you work in law, SAWLA is your professional home.
Judges & Magistrates
Senior members of the bench driving transformation in the judiciary.
Attorneys & Advocates
Practising lawyers across private, corporate, state, and public interest sectors.
Prosecutors & State Counsel
Women in the National Prosecuting Authority and State Law Advisers' office.
Academics & Students
The next generation, mentored and supported from their earliest years in law.
“In order for the continued existence of SAWLA to be justified, it would have to remain relevant.” — The late Chief Justice Pius Langa, at the launch of SAWLA
Latest from SAWLA
Flagship Event
Call for Nominations
Tickets Available
News & Upcoming Events
President’s Annual Dinner & Awards 2026
Our flagship gala celebrating 20 years of SAWLA. Join us for an evening of recognition, dialogue, and the SAWLA Presidential Awards.
22 August 2026 · JohannesburgNominate a Woman Lawyer for the SAWLA Presidential Award
Do you know a woman lawyer who has made an outstanding contribution to the profession or community? Nominations close 30 June 2026.
Deadline: 30 June 2026Book Your Seat — President’s Dinner 2026
Tickets for the SAWLA President’s Annual Dinner & Gala are now available at R1,500 per person. Secure your seat today.
22 August 2026 · R1,500 per person
Partner With Us
Support the Advancement of Women in Law
SAWLA welcomes contributions, partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations from organisations committed to gender equality and the advancement of women in the legal profession.
partnerships@sawla.co.za