Programmes & Services
Real, measurable impact for women lawyers and the communities they serve.
Programme list
Free Legal Clinics
SAWLA operates legal clinics at courts and community centres across South Africa, providing free advice on maintenance, domestic violence, family law, and access to justice. The Western Cape branch runs clinics at five court jurisdictions in partnership with the Department of Justice.
Professional Development & CPD
Regular webinars, seminars, and workshops qualifying for continuing professional development points. Topics span legal practice, gender law, leadership, business development, and transformation in the profession. Events run at national and provincial level throughout the year.
Mentorship Programme
Experienced women lawyers matched with candidate attorneys, law graduates, and junior practitioners for structured mentorship, designed to accelerate careers and reduce attrition among junior female lawyers in the profession.
Advocacy & Policy Dialogue
SAWLA engages government, the judiciary, and professional bodies on gender transformation, judicial appointments, and women’s rights. The association submits formal representations to the JSC, Parliament, and the Department of Justice on matters affecting women in law.
16 Days of Activism
Annual targeted legal awareness and community engagement during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence — including know-your-rights workshops, GBV legal clinics, and public awareness campaigns at provincial level.
President’s Annual Dinner
SAWLA’s flagship annual gala bringing together women in law, the judiciary, government, and partners for an evening of recognition, networking, and dialogue. The 2026 edition takes place on 22 August in Johannesburg.