Serious concerns: no LPC or CIPC registration, unclear legal status, NOT a law firm, and excessive client authority

I engaged Employment Law Veritas / Labour Law Veritas and was provided with a “No Win No Fee Agreement” and a Power of Attorney.

The agreement provides for a 25% fee and refers to “legal fees”, yet no admitted attorney, advocate, or Legal Practice Council (LPC) registration details were provided despite requests. By their own description, they operate as “legal consultants” rather than admitted legal practitioners.

The Power of Attorney grants very broad authority, including the ability to settle matters and receive funds on the client’s behalf. From the wording provided, there appear to be limited safeguards ensuring ongoing client involvement in decisions.

I was also unable to verify the entity on the CIPC register under the names provided, and this information was not clearly disclosed in their documentation or correspondence.

Key questions regarding legal status, practitioner registration, and compliance with contingency fee requirements remain unanswered.

Prospective clients should carefully verify: • who is legally authorised to represent them • whether any fee arrangement complies with South African law • and what authority is being granted over their matter and funds

***Proceed with caution and ensure you fully understand the implications before signing. Phone Legal Aid for free on their toll-free hotline for an opinion on the POA and contract. ***