Mphela & Associates Attorneys Inc.’s 40th anniversary was featured in an advertorial in the Observer’s 4 September 2026 edition. Titled “Mphela Attorneys celebrates 40 years”, the feature reflects on four decades of growth, service and a commitment to making justice more accessible.
Founded in 1986 by managing director Maditsi Mphela, the firm grew from a desire to assist disadvantaged communities. In the feature, Mr Mphela recalls returning to Groblersdal after completing his articles in Pretoria, determined to establish a legal practice in an area where black lawyers were not represented.
The article recounts the challenges he faced when establishing the practice during apartheid, and the determination that helped the firm survive and grow. From its beginnings with one employee, the firm had grown to 105 employees at the time of the feature, with its head office in Groblersdal and branches in Pretoria and Polokwane.
Alongside fellow director Tshepo Matlala and a team of 15 litigation lawyers, Mr Mphela attributes the firm’s longevity to strong leadership, putting clients’ interests first, a dedicated workforce and adapting to developments in the legal sector.
The feature also highlights the personal significance of representing vulnerable clients. Reflecting on the trust clients place in the firm, Mr Mphela says: “I always regard myself as their servant.” His account places compassion and the pursuit of justice at the heart of the firm’s work.
As we mark 40 years, we thank our clients, colleagues and the communities who have supported Mphela & Associates from the beginning. We remain committed to the values reflected in our anniversary message: service, justice and trust.