Choosing the ‘Right’ Career Vital, says UKZN Alumnus.

BY: .

Choosing to pursue a degree that suited his strengths and personality has led to a successful career in Law for UKZN alumnus, Mr Dean Joubert de Villiers.

De Villiers who is an Associate in Shepstone & Wylie’s Litigation department says studying Law at UKZN was the right decision as its broad application presented him with endless opportunities.

‘I did not begin my Law degree with the ambition of being an Attorney or an Advocate. My passion for Law came later in the degree when I was able to weave the different modules into one larger picture which I could apply to a set of facts. I enjoyed that,’ he said.

When he completed his studies in 2012, de Villiers began the search for a Law firm where he could do his articles - an experience that introduced him to the reality of how competitive the job industry is and why it is important to have an academic qualification.

‘I remember the stresses surrounding my applications to Law firms and horror stories of how bright, young law graduates were unable to find a place to do their articles. Let me say that the job market is tough so proactive steps and good marks are important for getting off to the right start,’ said de Villiers.

‘I started my articles in January 2013 and served two years, starting in the Litigation department at Shepstone, which I believe is the only place to test your mettle as a junior attorney. It is where the law starts and ends so it is, in my opinion, the best place to begin a legal career,’ he added.

Fast forward to 2015 and his career as a litigator sees de Villiers representing various corporate and individual clients in the magistrate’s courts and high courts.

‘My daily tasks include preparation of legal documents for court and appearing in the magistrate’s courts. My areas of practice include banking and finance, debt collecting, construction disputes, insolvency and insurance and property disputes. I have recently started some immigration work which is something different.

‘Currently I am in the process of building a client base of my own while running various matters for other professionals within the firm. I look forward to growing a successful practice within Shepstone & Wylie,’ said de Villiers.

 Thandiwe Jumo