Led by Aadil Patel, 'a skilled draftsman and clever litigator', Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr's employment team adeptly handles high-stakes disputes, collective bargaining, strikes, and groundbreaking workplace policy matters. Patel has acted extensively in both the private and public sector, while Fiona Leppan supports clients that are active in the manufacturing and mining sectors. Imraan Mahomed is instructed across a spectrum of industries within employment law, Anli Bezuidenhout specialises in individual labour law, M&A employment due diligence, and post-termination restraints and obligations. Phetheni Nkuna assists clients with dismissal disputes, restraints of trade, and employment equity, and Thabang Rapuleng, Kgodisho Phashe, and Biron Madisa bolster the team’s effort.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘We work mainly with Fiona Leppan and her team of associates. Fiona brings not only deep expertise but also a genuine commitment to building strong, trusting relationships. She is consistently available, quick to act, and always follow through. That kind of dependability is invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations.'
- ‘They provide relevant, accurate, timely direction and advice, technology and awareness raising around the latest legislative changes.'
- ‘We have worked primarily with Imraan Mahomed and his colleagues for the last several years. A truly outstanding, professional and knowledgeable team.'
- ‘What makes this practice unique is its unwavering commitment to excellence, client-centric service, and forward-thinking legal solutions.'
- ‘Aadil Patel and Anli Bezuidenhout demonstrate a rare combination of legal excellence, emotional intelligence, and genuine client commitment. What sets them apart from competitors is not only their technical proficiency but also their ability to build trust, communicate clearly, and deliver results with integrity and care.'
- 'Aadil Patel has years of experience which allows him to quickly assess an instruction and provide pragmatic advice and solutions taking into account specific client nuances. He is a skilled draftsman and clever litigator, pleading and arguing matters skilfully, eloquently and persuasively.'
Key clients
- SITA
- IDC
- ArcelorMittal South Africa
- SAAT
- South African National Parks
- Old Mutual
- Samancor Chrome
- Assmang
- NHLS
- BMW
- Mediterranean Shipping Company
- Al Baraka Bank
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Aadil Patel
Other key lawyers
Fiona Leppan; Imraan Mahomed; Anli Bezuidenhout; Phetheni Nkuna; Thabang Rapuleng; Kgodisho Phashe; Biron Madisa