, Question 1
In terms of the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014, attorneys practising for their own account or in
partnership must possess a Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC) to be entitled to practise. This certificate
is issued annually by the Legal Practice Council and confirms that they are authorised to handle
trust money (Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014, s 84(1)).
Question 2
Competence and diligence expected under ethical guidelines for paralegals
Paralegals are expected to adhere to ethical standards ensuring quality legal support.
Competence and diligence generally include the following:
Adequate knowledge and skill – A paralegal must maintain sufficient legal knowledge and
practical skills to perform assigned duties accurately and effectively (SAQA Paralegal
Qualification Guidelines, 2019).
Careful and accurate work – Tasks such as drafting, filing, and research must be completed
thoroughly and with attention to detail to avoid errors affecting legal outcomes (Law Society of
South Africa, Ethical Guidelines).
Timeliness – Work must be completed promptly and deadlines respected to avoid prejudice to
clients or attorneys (LSSA Guidelines).
Following supervision and scope of role – Paralegals must recognise limits of their authority, act
under supervision, and avoid unauthorised legal practice (Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014).
Confidentiality and responsibility – They must handle client information responsibly while
performing duties diligently (LSSA Guidelines).
Continuous improvement – Ethical competence requires ongoing learning and updating of
knowledge to maintain professional standards (SAQA, 2019).
In terms of the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014, attorneys practising for their own account or in
partnership must possess a Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC) to be entitled to practise. This certificate
is issued annually by the Legal Practice Council and confirms that they are authorised to handle
trust money (Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014, s 84(1)).
Question 2
Competence and diligence expected under ethical guidelines for paralegals
Paralegals are expected to adhere to ethical standards ensuring quality legal support.
Competence and diligence generally include the following:
Adequate knowledge and skill – A paralegal must maintain sufficient legal knowledge and
practical skills to perform assigned duties accurately and effectively (SAQA Paralegal
Qualification Guidelines, 2019).
Careful and accurate work – Tasks such as drafting, filing, and research must be completed
thoroughly and with attention to detail to avoid errors affecting legal outcomes (Law Society of
South Africa, Ethical Guidelines).
Timeliness – Work must be completed promptly and deadlines respected to avoid prejudice to
clients or attorneys (LSSA Guidelines).
Following supervision and scope of role – Paralegals must recognise limits of their authority, act
under supervision, and avoid unauthorised legal practice (Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014).
Confidentiality and responsibility – They must handle client information responsibly while
performing duties diligently (LSSA Guidelines).
Continuous improvement – Ethical competence requires ongoing learning and updating of
knowledge to maintain professional standards (SAQA, 2019).
