Practice Areas
Our commercial attorneys provide exceptional legal counsel to a broad array of public and private companies, private equity firms, financial institutions, government entities, and individuals.
Our Real Estate and Property Law practice uniquely benefits from collaboration with experts across various legal disciplines within the firm. Whether facing property-related disputes or seeking guidance on corporate matters, our clients have access to a broad spectrum of legal support whenever needed.
When a Gate Falls: Lessons in Property Owner Liability for the Insurance Industry
Brief facts The plaintiff, a tenant, instituted a delictual claim against the defendant, her landlord, in her representative capacity as the mother and natural guardian of her minor son. The claim aro...
September 02 2026
Liability Policies Listing Specific Wrongs: Cover Will Not Extend to a Related but Unlisted Delict
In General Star Indemnity Co. v. Toy Quest Ltd, the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota held that a commercial general liability (“CGL”) insurer owed no duty to defend its i...
September 01 2026
Why South Africa’s Draft Repair and Maintenance Guidelines Matter to Consumers
The Competition Commission of South Africa (“Commission”) has published the Draft Guidelines on Repair, Service, and Maintenance Aftermarkets (“Draft Guidelines”) under section 79 of the Compe...
September 01 2026
Our clients appreciate our meticulous approach, personalised service and successful outcomes.
Read what they have to say about our commitment to every enterprise we undertake.
We are Africa’s largest intellectual property law firm with an award winning commercial, real estate and dispute resolution law practice. We are a gateway to African markets, with a network of over 200 legal professionals working in four major cities in South Africa and 23 associate offices across Africa. Our ethos is not just practising law ‘by the book’ but rather a firm which ‘writes the book’. This ensures we stay ahead of the field to provide the best legal services and help our clients realise the potential of their African enterprise.
Harry Adams started his practice in Pretoria in 1908. By 1916 he was assisting the SA government in drafting new intellectual property law and had published a booklet on intellectual property laws in SA which brought international attention to his practice. The following year, Harry was joined by his younger brother EV Adams and so Adams & Adams was born. EV Adams practised conveyancing and general law and this laid the foundation for Adams & Adams success as an intellectual property and commercial law firm. Through the years Adams & Adams has continued the ground breaking and innovative spirit of the two brothers, no matter what the challenge.
At Adams & Adams, we prioritise responsible business practices, both in our internal management and in the delivery of client service. Our goal is to make a positive impact on our colleagues, clients, the profession, and the local community.
How can we help you?
We have offices in four major cities in South Africa: Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Additionally, we have another 23 associate offices in the rest of Africa.
Please contact your nearest office for any legal enquiry or assistance.

