PVT Structured Coursework and Exam Preparation for Pupils – 2026

Essential vocational training programme for candidate legal practitioners intending to be admitted as advocates

About this Programme

The Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) is presenting this postgraduate vocational training programme for candidate legal practitioners intending to be admitted as advocates.

The programme is accredited by the Legal Practice Council (LPC) with the intention to prepare candidates for the Advocates’ Admission examination from September 2026.

The programme is offered by LEAD specifically to cater for the training of Advocates without Fidelity Fund Certificates.

Candidates are reminded that apart from this Regulation 7 Practical Vocational Training, enrolment with a Supervisor at an Advocate’s Bar is still an additional requirement for successful admission as a Legal Practitioner.

Objective of the Programme

To provide a postgraduate vocational training and examination preparation programme for candidates intending to be admitted as advocates.

Nature of Study

Training is provided online by practising legal practitioners in preparation for the Advocates’ Admission examination as set by the LPC.

The programme consists of modules prescribed by the Regulations as per the LPA (amended) and is practice-orientated to ensure pupils can perform most tasks with minimal supervision.

Webinars, online feedback sessions and self-study guides form part of the training methodology.

Modules

The programme is standardised and uniform throughout South Africa and based on experiential training defined as ‘notional hours’.

• Advocacy skills, including trial and motion court proceedings
• Alternative dispute resolution
• Civil procedure
• Criminal procedure
• Professional conduct and legal ethics for advocates
• Legal writing and drafting
• Constitutional law and customary law
• Information and communication technology for practice and cyber law

* Attorneys’ bookkeeping is not included in this programme.

Important Note

This training caters specifically to non-Fidelity Fund Advocates. Additional bookkeeping and legal practice management training will be required for candidates intending to become advocates with a Fidelity Fund Certificate.

The medium of instruction is English.

Date

08 June – 31 August 2026

Closing date: 31 May 2026

Pupil Evaluation and Certification

A candidate’s progress is monitored throughout the programme with assignment feedback provided. Candidates must achieve the required level of competence to receive certification.

Documents Required

Applicants must upload the following documents with their application:

• Certified copy of South African ID document
• Proof of law degree
• Certified copy of LLB degree or original confirmation letter from the Dean of Law
• Certified copy of BProc degree (if applicable)
• Letter from Supervisor confirming PVT contract registration (if applicable)

Note: Scan documentation and upload it on the online application form.

Who should register?

Candidates with an LLB degree who intend to become Advocates and who have entered into a pupillage/PVT contract with a practising advocate.

Programme Fee

The fee is subject to subvention by the LPC.

Estimated Fee: R 4 500 (15% VAT included)

The fee must be paid before the programme commences and access to resources is provided.

The fee includes online study material but excludes stationery.

How to Register

Kindly note that you can only apply online. Participants must apply individually.

STEP 1

Payment should be made via EFT only. Upload proof of payment during the online registration process.

LSSA banking details:
Account name: Law Society of South Africa
Bank: FNB Pretoria
Branch code: 251445
Account no: 6200 9641 079
Reference: Surname, Name and Cell Number

STEP 2

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

STEP 3

Once successfully applied, candidates will receive a confirmation email and system-generated access link to the programme via Microsoft Teams/eLeader Platform.

For More Information

Dodo Dubazane
E-mail: Dodo@LSSALEAD.org.za

Please note we only communicate via e-mail should you need more information.

Please Take Note

• Fees must be paid into the designated LSSA bank account only.
• The programme is conducted in English only.
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing within two business days before the closing date.
• LEAD is one of the largest providers of legal professional education in South Africa.
• LEAD is accredited by the Legal Practice Council.
• LEAD offers quality, accessible and affordable legal training.