• 034 328 1300
  • gerrit@dbmlaw.com
  • Monday to Thursday 08:00 - 16:30 | Fridays 08:00 - 16:00

New breed law firm

We embrace diversity

Who We Are

DBM Attorneys is proudly based in Newcastle and our clients regard us as a firm of excellence. As the largest firm of attorneys in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, we provide our clients with efficient and effective legal solutions with integrity and professionalism.

We care

We care for our clients, our staff and our community.

We care

We like to get personal and build relationships of trust with our clients. We invest in our staff and give back to our communities.

Setting the Standard

We set the standard and lead from the front.

Setting the Standard

We set high standards for ourselves and work hard to achieve them and ensure our clients experience top and consistent service throughout the firm.

Expertise

Expertise

We are experts that aim to simplify the complex.

Featured Articles

Employment Equity targets are in. Is your business ready?

05 August 2025

If you employ 50 or more people, major changes are coming, and non-compliance could cost you millions.

READ MORE
0
Article

To be or not to be: The director’s dilemma

05 August 2025

Find out what it really means to be a director, and what happens when things go wrong.

READ MORE
1
Article

No borders, no rules? Cryptocurrency and South African law

05 August 2025

Crypto might be borderless, but South Africa’s laws aren’t. Find out why exchange control regulations don’t apply to cryptocurrency (yet)... and what could change soon.

READ MORE
0
Article

Underwriter vs Arranger. What’s the difference?

05 August 2025

When a claim is denied, knowing who’s who can make all the difference.

READ MORE
0
Article

Signed, sealed… certified!

05 August 2025

Selling your home? Don’t forget about the five must-have certificates that seal the deal, from electrical to beetle and beyond.

READ MORE
3
Article

New draft code on dismissals: What employers need to know

04 August 2025

Clearer. Broader. More focused. The new Draft Code aims to clarify dismissal procedures for misconduct, incapacity, and now, for the... first time, fully incorporates operational requirements. 

READ MORE
6
Article

From courtroom battles to common ground: Mediation and divorce

01 July 2025

Mediation in divorce is often mistaken for couples therapy, but it’s an alternative form of dispute resolution — helping separating... partners work through the terms of their divorce with the help of an independent third party.

READ MORE
54
Article

Selling your property? Watch out for lurking capital gains tax

01 July 2025

Before you count your profit, watch out for what’s quietly lurking beneath — capital gains tax. Here’s what every homeowner,... investor, and trustee should know before signing on the dotted line…

READ MORE
49
Article

Owing SARS money? Here’s what you need to do

30 June 2025

Owe SARS more than you can pay? You might be able to negotiate your way out of it—legally. Learn how... a compromise could offer a second chance.

READ MORE
127
Article

M&A in SA: Why everyone’s talking about earn-outs

30 June 2025

In South African private mergers and acquisitions (M&A), earn-outs are increasingly used as a tool to bridge valuation gaps and... align the interests of buyers and sellers.

READ MORE
58
Article

Think before you post: Your job might depend on it

30 June 2025

Think your personal social media is off-limits to your employer? Think again. This article reveals how online posts can lead... to real-world workplace consequences.

READ MORE
54
Article

Can a minor inherit a house or farm?

03 June 2025

Parents and other family members often bequeath immovable property to their children or grandchildren. But what is the position when... the testator dies and the person standing to inherit is still a minor? Can they inherit? In this article, we look at how this position is dealt with in our law.

READ MORE
125
Article

“Running” into trouble: pedestrian rights matter

03 June 2025

Think you're safe sprinting through a public race? A recent court ruling says otherwise. Find out how one runner's collision... turned into a costly legal lesson—and what it means for every athlete on public routes.

READ MORE
82
Article

Bypassing the National Credit Act may come back to bite you

02 June 2025

Think you can sidestep credit laws with ‘friendly’ loans or sneaky deals? Think again. Discover why trying to outsmart the... National Credit Act could lead to costly surprises you never saw coming.

READ MORE
118
Article

Cybercrime on the rise in property transactions

02 June 2025

As property transactions increasingly rely on electronic communication, buyers and sellers are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. This article outlines... simple, effective steps to help protect against digital threats during the buying and selling process.

READ MORE
99
Article

Competition Commission guidelines on internal restructuring

30 May 2025

Thinking of reshuffling your company’s structure? The Competition Commission has just released clear guidelines on when internal changes could count... as mergers, and when you need to notify them. Don’t get caught off guard; find out what the new rules mean for your business.

READ MORE
91
Article

No foot to stand on: “Voetstoots” and the cost of concealing defects

30 May 2025

Think ‘voetstoots’ means you're off the hook as a seller? Think again. A recent court ruling draws the line between... misrepresentation and legal immunity.

READ MORE
81
Article

New Housing Act: What homeowners and builders must know

30 May 2025

Planning to build, renovate, or buy a home? This new Act could impact your plans—and your rights. Here's what you... need to know.

READ MORE
214
Article

Unsafe grounds: Can schools be held liable for sports injuries?

06 May 2025

What happens when your child gets injured at school? Who is responsible for their safety? In this article, we examine... whether a school can be held liable for injuries sustained by a pupil during school activities. 

READ MORE
168
Article

Walking the M&A tightrope: Telecom and Energy deals in SA

06 May 2025

The telecommunications and energy sectors are undoubtedly amongst the key drivers of the South African economy at present. However, with... an increasing number of mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”) occurring in these sectors, the Competition Commission are imposing stricter approval conditions to promote public interest and balance competition and economic transformation. 

READ MORE
130
Article

When credit agreements get sticky

06 May 2025

Navigating the ins and outs of credit agreements under the National Credit Act can feel like walking through legal quicksand.... One wrong clause or overlooked procedure, and your entire case could come undone. Before enforcing your rights, make sure you’re not stepping into a sticky situation of your own making.

READ MORE
121
Article

Unpaid levies? Lights out: Court empowers Body Corporates

06 May 2025

Sectional title owners behind on their levies and utility bills may find themselves in the dark—literally. We unpack the implications... of an illuminating High Court judgment.

READ MORE
215
Article

Storm warning for accountable institutions without an updated RMCP

06 May 2025

The storm has passed—but the damage may be just beginning. With the deadline for submitting updated RMCPs now behind us,... accountable institutions that failed to comply could be in the FIC’s crosshairs.

READ MORE
314
Article

Do you need to register as a credit provider? Here's when and how

06 May 2025

Thinking of granting credit, even just once? You might be surprised to learn that doing so—even for as little as... R1—could trigger a legal requirement to register as a credit provider. With recent changes lowering the registration threshold to zero, understanding when and how to register is more important than ever. Whether you're a business or an individual, here's what you need to know before issuing credit in South Africa.

READ MORE
472
Article

Employment Equity targets are in. Is your business ready?

05 August 2025
If you employ 50 or more people, major changes are coming, and non-compliance could cost you millions.
READ MORE
0
Article

To be or not to be: The director’s dilemma

05 August 2025
Find out what it really means to be a director, and what happens when things go wrong.
READ MORE
1
Article

No borders, no rules? Cryptocurrency and South African law

05 August 2025
Crypto might be borderless, but South Africa’s laws aren’t. Find out why exchange control regulations don’t apply to cryptocurrency (yet)... and what could change soon.
READ MORE
0
Article

Underwriter vs Arranger. What’s the difference?

05 August 2025
When a claim is denied, knowing who’s who can make all the difference.
READ MORE
0
Article

Signed, sealed… certified!

05 August 2025
Selling your home? Don’t forget about the five must-have certificates that seal the deal, from electrical to beetle and beyond.
READ MORE
3
Article

New draft code on dismissals: What employers need to know

04 August 2025
Clearer. Broader. More focused. The new Draft Code aims to clarify dismissal procedures for misconduct, incapacity, and now, for the... first time, fully incorporates operational requirements. 
READ MORE
6
Article

From courtroom battles to common ground: Mediation and divorce

01 July 2025
Mediation in divorce is often mistaken for couples therapy, but it’s an alternative form of dispute resolution — helping separating... partners work through the terms of their divorce with the help of an independent third party.
READ MORE
54
Article

Selling your property? Watch out for lurking capital gains tax

01 July 2025
Before you count your profit, watch out for what’s quietly lurking beneath — capital gains tax. Here’s what every homeowner,... investor, and trustee should know before signing on the dotted line…
READ MORE
49
Article

Owing SARS money? Here’s what you need to do

30 June 2025
Owe SARS more than you can pay? You might be able to negotiate your way out of it—legally. Learn how... a compromise could offer a second chance.
READ MORE
127
Article

M&A in SA: Why everyone’s talking about earn-outs

30 June 2025
In South African private mergers and acquisitions (M&A), earn-outs are increasingly used as a tool to bridge valuation gaps and... align the interests of buyers and sellers.
READ MORE
58
Article

Think before you post: Your job might depend on it

30 June 2025
Think your personal social media is off-limits to your employer? Think again. This article reveals how online posts can lead... to real-world workplace consequences.
READ MORE
54
Article

Can a minor inherit a house or farm?

03 June 2025
Parents and other family members often bequeath immovable property to their children or grandchildren. But what is the position when... the testator dies and the person standing to inherit is still a minor? Can they inherit? In this article, we look at how this position is dealt with in our law.
READ MORE
125
Article

“Running” into trouble: pedestrian rights matter

03 June 2025
Think you're safe sprinting through a public race? A recent court ruling says otherwise. Find out how one runner's collision... turned into a costly legal lesson—and what it means for every athlete on public routes.
READ MORE
82
Article

Bypassing the National Credit Act may come back to bite you

02 June 2025
Think you can sidestep credit laws with ‘friendly’ loans or sneaky deals? Think again. Discover why trying to outsmart the... National Credit Act could lead to costly surprises you never saw coming.
READ MORE
118
Article

Cybercrime on the rise in property transactions

02 June 2025
As property transactions increasingly rely on electronic communication, buyers and sellers are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. This article outlines... simple, effective steps to help protect against digital threats during the buying and selling process.
READ MORE
99
Article

Competition Commission guidelines on internal restructuring

30 May 2025
Thinking of reshuffling your company’s structure? The Competition Commission has just released clear guidelines on when internal changes could count... as mergers, and when you need to notify them. Don’t get caught off guard; find out what the new rules mean for your business.
READ MORE
91
Article

No foot to stand on: “Voetstoots” and the cost of concealing defects

30 May 2025
Think ‘voetstoots’ means you're off the hook as a seller? Think again. A recent court ruling draws the line between... misrepresentation and legal immunity.
READ MORE
81
Article

New Housing Act: What homeowners and builders must know

30 May 2025
Planning to build, renovate, or buy a home? This new Act could impact your plans—and your rights. Here's what you... need to know.
READ MORE
214
Article

Unsafe grounds: Can schools be held liable for sports injuries?

06 May 2025
What happens when your child gets injured at school? Who is responsible for their safety? In this article, we examine... whether a school can be held liable for injuries sustained by a pupil during school activities. 
READ MORE
168
Article

Walking the M&A tightrope: Telecom and Energy deals in SA

06 May 2025
The telecommunications and energy sectors are undoubtedly amongst the key drivers of the South African economy at present. However, with... an increasing number of mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”) occurring in these sectors, the Competition Commission are imposing stricter approval conditions to promote public interest and balance competition and economic transformation. 
READ MORE
130
Article

When credit agreements get sticky

06 May 2025
Navigating the ins and outs of credit agreements under the National Credit Act can feel like walking through legal quicksand.... One wrong clause or overlooked procedure, and your entire case could come undone. Before enforcing your rights, make sure you’re not stepping into a sticky situation of your own making.
READ MORE
121
Article

Unpaid levies? Lights out: Court empowers Body Corporates

06 May 2025
Sectional title owners behind on their levies and utility bills may find themselves in the dark—literally. We unpack the implications... of an illuminating High Court judgment.
READ MORE
215
Article

Storm warning for accountable institutions without an updated RMCP

06 May 2025
The storm has passed—but the damage may be just beginning. With the deadline for submitting updated RMCPs now behind us,... accountable institutions that failed to comply could be in the FIC’s crosshairs.
READ MORE
314
Article

Do you need to register as a credit provider? Here's when and how

06 May 2025
Thinking of granting credit, even just once? You might be surprised to learn that doing so—even for as little as... R1—could trigger a legal requirement to register as a credit provider. With recent changes lowering the registration threshold to zero, understanding when and how to register is more important than ever. Whether you're a business or an individual, here's what you need to know before issuing credit in South Africa.
READ MORE
472
Article

Featured Expertise

Administration of Estates

Administration of deceased estates, include advice and guidance, executorships, preparation of all documentation for submission to the Master of the... High Court, preparation of agreements, management of estate assets and liabilities, and all related aspects to ensure a successful administration of a deceased estate.

Appeal

Appeal and review support and assistance in all appropriate forums, risk and merit assessment, preparation and lodging of appeal documentation... and records, case management, legal representation, briefing of counsel and all related support services.

Banking and Finance

Banking and finance services, advice and support in relation to credit and finance agreements, transaction structuring, financing agreements, securities and... negotiable instruments, shares and debentures, regulatory compliance, opinions, and drafting of related documentation and agreements.

Black Economic Empowerment

Advice and support in respect of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) scorecard planning, BEE transaction structuring, equity transactions and ownership models,... empowerment funding, BEE compliance in respect of relevant BEE legislation, codes and charters, skills development, centralized procurement and socio-economic and enterprise development initiatives.

Bond Registration and Cancellation

Advice and support regarding the registration and cancellation of mortgage bonds, drafting and preparation of securities, engaging with financiers, preparation... and lodging of documentation with the Deeds Office, engaging with third parties, obtaining all necessary authorities and approvals, management of the registration or cancellation process.

Child Rights

Advice, guidance and support in respect of child rights, including protection, maintenance, custody, adoptions, surrogacy, legal representation, mediation, negotiation, investigations,... drafting of documentation and agreements, initiation of proceedings and all other matters relating to child rights.

Commercial Contracting

Advice and drafting of all types of commercial, business and other agreements and transaction documents, standardised contract formats, reviews and... audits, risk assessments, negotiation, mediation and dispute resolution.

Consolidation and Subdivision

Advice and support regarding the consolidation or subdivision or immovable property, including the preparation and lodging of documentation with the... Deeds Office, obtaining all necessary authorities and approvals, engaging with third parties, management of the consolidation or subdivision process.

Consumer Law

Advice and support in respect of all aspects of legal and regulatory aspects relating to the consumer including business audits,... risk assessments, drafting of policies and procedures, consumer agreements, drafting of forms, terms and conditions, e-commerce and other aspects relating to consumer law.

Corporate

Advice and support in respect of entity formation, preparation of founding documentation, registrations, maintenance, amendments, drafting of agreements and resolutions,... and company secretarial and administrative support services

Corporate Governance

Advice and support regarding regulatory compliance, corporate governance, risk assessment, decision-making, company secretarial functions, policies and procedures, training, and the... drafting of opinions and documentation.

Corporate Structuring

Advice and support regarding effective corporate structuring, entity formation and restructuring, taxation related aspects, reorganising business assets, mergers and acquisitions,... takeovers, joint ventures, private equity, corporate unbundling, share structuring, securities, financing, due diligences, commercialisation and all related agreements and documentation.

Administration of Estates

Administration of deceased estates, include advice and guidance, executorships, preparation of all documentation for submission to the Master of the... High Court, preparation of agreements, management of estate assets and liabilities, and all related aspects to ensure a successful administration of a deceased estate.

Appeal

Appeal and review support and assistance in all appropriate forums, risk and merit assessment, preparation and lodging of appeal documentation... and records, case management, legal representation, briefing of counsel and all related support services.

Banking and Finance

Banking and finance services, advice and support in relation to credit and finance agreements, transaction structuring, financing agreements, securities and... negotiable instruments, shares and debentures, regulatory compliance, opinions, and drafting of related documentation and agreements.

Black Economic Empowerment

Advice and support in respect of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) scorecard planning, BEE transaction structuring, equity transactions and ownership models,... empowerment funding, BEE compliance in respect of relevant BEE legislation, codes and charters, skills development, centralized procurement and socio-economic and enterprise development initiatives.

Corporate Structuring

Advice and support regarding effective corporate structuring, entity formation and restructuring, taxation related aspects, reorganising business assets, mergers and acquisitions,... takeovers, joint ventures, private equity, corporate unbundling, share structuring, securities, financing, due diligences, commercialisation and all related agreements and documentation.

DBM Attorneys

Proud and excited for achieving the Platinum Award once again for 2022 and 2023!

The Platinum Award is the highest award of the PH Group to a member firm.
READ MORE

DBM Attorneys

Proud and excited for achieving the Platinum Award once again for 2022 and 2023!

The Platinum Award is the highest award of the PH Group to a member firm.
READ MORE

Client Testimonials

SACC has a long history with DBM Attorneys, whom have provided the company with valuable legal services in all areas of the business. DBM Attorneys is renowned for its efficient, reliable and professional legal advice.

Neraksha Bhowani , Director
SA Calcium Carbride

DBM Attorneys always delivers professional service.

Lungile Mgobhozi , HR Manager
Lanxess CISA

In my entire career I have never seen such speed and professionalism when receiving services. The efficiency of Lynette of the conveyancing department and the system that you are using at DBM is beyond comprehension, unbelievable! I was updated by Lynette and the system all the way. Never, even once, where I had to call your office to find out about the status of my stand. I reside and work in Pretoria, I felt this process was going to take long, but Lynette made it look so easy, she's, professional, solution driven and committed (I think I need her in my office in Pretoria she's got excellent work ethics). This whole deal was made without me coming down to your office in Newcastle, can you believe it!!! for some reasons I ended up trusting the whole process because Lynette knows her story and she very eloquent when explaining I ended up taking the risk and it worked. It is believable that DBM Attorneys are so technologically advanced in its business dealings... within 4 weeks my stand is registered under my name wow!!! that 360 degrees service turn deserves a big THANK YOU to Lezea, Alisa and Lynette.

Ntombikayise Sambo, Private Client

Dear Mamati I would like to express my appreciation in a short note. Thank you so much for your assistance. May you continue doing your outstanding work to your clients May God bless you and your colleagues abundantly! Much Appreciated

Thande Shabangu, Private Client

I just wish to take the opportunity to thank Prishila Ramsangar and Sonja Slabbert for the unbelievable excellent service that we received on our first property deal. You have managed both the transfer as well as the registration of the bond on a professional basis and kept us up to date on a daily basis. What was apparently supposed to be a stressful situation was made simple and it was an absolute pleasure to deal with DBM, Priscilla and Sonja.

Monique Roux , Room Division Manager
Vulintaba Country Hotel & Spa

I would like to express my gratitude to the Firm for the opportunity that was afforded to me by inviting me to attend the vacation work programme. The Firm’s culture was very welcoming and conducive for learning and experiencing what the actual practice of law is all about. It was obvious that there was a lot of skills transferred to young lawyers. Furthermore, the people are comfortable and relaxed to be around. I learned a great deal with regards to the proper drafting of court documents insofar as the practical application of legal theory is concerned. I also learnt about the value of good administrative skills within an office workplace environment, as it is a vital survival tool for an effective/efficient attorney and lastly, I also practically observed how civil court procedures was practiced with reference to the legal theory from our textbooks.

Mawande Xaba, Vacation Work Programme Student

I once bought a house at Ngagane through DBM Attorneys during 2020. Elize Maritz your service and feedback was excellent. I will definitely use you again.

GM Sibiya, Private Client

Elize, I always rely on your prompt action. Your professionalism and efficiency is the best I've seen.

Sindi Nyoka, Private Client

Elize and Prishila, We sincerely appreciate the effort of DBM and team for the streamline progress for very quick registration, we were actually surprised as the agent had mentioned that the property is likely to be registered only next year and therefore are thankful for a speedy turn-around-time of 38 days. We are glad, happy and excited on our new home. It is big step for any homeowner/s on the purchase of a home and DBM has delivered an efficient service to us. Thanking you kindly.

Mr. & Mrs. Nanan, Private Client

Mandy, On behalf of my mom, my sister and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the DBM team for attending to this transfer. The efficiency and professionalism conducted throughout this process by DBM, was absolutely remarkable and outstanding. We could not have chosen a better Conveyancing Attorney.

Leon Grundlingh, Private Client

Hi Mandy Thank you. Received notification that payment was done. Appreciate it. Thank you for everything you have done for us and always being polite and friendly, although we where a pain. Have a lovely day.

Letitia and Gawie van Wyk, Private Client

In my entire career. I have never seen such speed and professionalism when receiving services. The efficiency of Lynette Kuzanga and the system that you are using at DBM is beyond comprehension, unbelievable! I was updated by Lynette and the system all the way. Never, even once, where I had to call your office to find out about the status of my stand. I reside and work in Pretoria, I felt this process was going to take long, but Lynette made it look so easy, she's, professional, solution driven and committed (I think I need her in my office in Pretoria she's got excellent work ethics). This whole deal was made without me coming down to your office in Newcastle, can you believe it!!! for some reasons I ended up trusting the whole process because Lynette knows her story and she very eloquent when explaining I ended up taking the risk and it worked. It is believable that DBM Attorneys are so technologically advanced in its business dealings... within 4 weeks my stand is registered under my name wow!!! that 360 degrees service turn deserves a big THANK YOU to Lezea, Alisa and Lynette.

Ntombikayiso Sambo, Private Client

I would like to acknowledge the great services provided by Elize Maritz (also DBM Attorneys Newcastle). Throughout the progress of registration. Elize assisted us with any enquiries we had as soon as possible. Thank you very much for everything Elize.

BJ Kruger, Private Client

Thank you for a great service DBM Attorneys, as a first time buyer I had a pleasant experience.

AP Msimango, Private Client

I would like to take this opportunity and thank you once again Elize Maritz. You have been extremely supportive, hands on and updating me throughout the whole process in order to finalise this matter. I am not shy to refer any person to you as I am confident that you are committed to excellency. You have inspired me Elize. I so wish we can have people in the Government who are of your same caliber.

SR Sibisi, Private Client

Thank you Mandy Coetzee ! Your service, work ethic and attention to detail is impeccable and very much appreciated !

Tracey Reineke, Property Practitioner
Seeff

Thank You Mandy always a pleasure dealing with you and the DBM family.

John Zanone, Commercial Banking Business Manager
Nedbank

Graag wil ek hierdie geleentheid neem om die firma DBM en in besonder Elize Maritz te bedank vir die uitstekende diens wat ek in die afgelope 20+jaar van julle ontvang het. Baie dankie dat julle altyd so flink optree en dat ons altyd soos familie ontvang word! Elke moontlike probleem word uitgesorteer en altyd met n glimlag en professionaliteit wat van n uitstaande firma soos DBM verwag word! Elize is uitstekend in haar werk en haar professionele hantering van elke saak wat sy deur die jare van my gedoen het is van die hoogste gehalte! Sy is waarlik n aanwins!

Alta Groenewald, Property Practitioner
Harcourts, Newcastle

I need to express my appreciation to you and your staff. I have had an effortless process dealing with Rita Nkosi and Elize Maritz and I must compliment your Attorneys Firm for absolute professional service in the way my Transfer and Bond Registration was handled. I will recommend your firm to anyone I know that needs professional service and advice. Well done and please compliment your ladies they are excellent.

Paul Byrom, Client

A big compliment to you and your staff for handling this transaction in such a professional way! Elize Maritz was always friendly and ready to assist. We were always kept up to date with the process! And yes...I'll definitely do business with your firm in future.

Bertus Potgieter, Property Practitioner
Aida, Pretoria North

Thank you Lynette Kuzanga for the promptness and for handling the transfer with such urgency much appreciated.

Tashveer Ramprith, Property Practitioner
Era, Newcastle

Mandy Coetzee, I thank you for everything you’ve done for me. It’s been a pleasure working with you.

Peggy Mtshali, Private Client

Mandy Coetzee, Thank you for your professional and speedy service. It is much appreciated!

Frikkie Viviers , Private Client