10 YEARS OF LEGAL EXCELLENCE!
Jan Hildebrand - Managing attorney
As Managing Attorney of Hildebrand Attorneys, Jan Hildebrand is passionate about quality legal advice that is tangible and adds value. Born in Germany, he completed his schooling in Cape Town and thereafter obtained Bachelor degrees in Business Science (B.BusSc) and Law (LLB) from the University of Cape Town.
Jan was admitted as at attorney in 2005 and thereafter spent a further 6 years at an international law firm with particular exposure to German Law and private international law. He has significant experience in property law from normal sale transactions to life right agreements and property developments, estate planning, the administration of deceased estates, and High Court litigation. Over the years Jan assumed various roles as director, trustee and board committee member of a number of profit and non-profit structures.
Throughout his career Jan has trained and mentored numerous Candidate Legal Practitioners (previously articled clerks) who have since become admitted attorneys and training and development has been close to his heart ever since his days at High School and in university where he would tutor students in all kinds of subjects.
The Firm embraces diversity and sees itself as a South African firm of attorneys with particular focus on international clients who invest in and emigrate to South Africa. The Firm understands that due to increased regulations in all spheres of life and the intricacies and risk of litigation, strategic thinking is critical when analysing and advising clients. Hildebrand Attorneys appreciates the responsibility which clients wish to place with their attorneys, an understanding of both the pecuniary aspects involved as well as the emotional and physical challenges clients face who are engaged in litigation and negotiations pertaining to commercial matters.
Fun Fact!
Whilst Jan can’t keep a beat on the dance floor, he does in fact have drumming experience and played in several bands, from time to time still plugging his kit up!
Aleks Du Plessis - Associate
Aleks is an LLB graduate from North-West University in Potchefstroom. After completing her law degree in 2021, she sought to further develop her legal skills at the Law Society of South Africa L.E.A.D Law School. She began her articles at Hildebrand Attorneys in August 2022, where she gained experience in several legal matters, including immigration law, deceased estates, litigation, and conveyancing.
With a keen interest in Family Law and Children’s Rights, which stemmed from her final-year mini-dissertation, she aspires to be part of the solution to the shortcomings in the enforcement of current adoption regulations.
On 1 November 2024, Aleks was admitted as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa. Following her admission, she looks forward to expanding her knowledge and experience in the various aspects of law she is exposed to as an Associate at the firm.
FUN FACT!
When she’s not busy tending to clients and the office greenery, Aleks can be found being dragged up a mountain for a hike with friends - admittedly, she always has fun (if you ask her afterward). She also cooks delicious sweet and sour pork (which is yet to be confirmed by the Hildebrand Attorneys-team)!
Vusa Ncube - Legal and Business Development Consultant
Hello! I'm Vusa a proud member of the Hildebrand Attorneys team. My experience at Hildebrand Attorneys is one of interest and growth of skillset set in a blend of research, hands-on-learning and execution of newly acquired skills leading to refinement.
Each day brings new challenges, allowing me to continuously learn and grow professionally. The dynamic nature of our work keeps things exciting and ensures that my skills are constantly evolving.
One of the standout features of our workplace is the collegial way in which we, as staff members, interact and support each other. The collaborative spirit is not just encouraged but ingrained in our culture.
This creates an environment where everyone's natural inclinations and strengths are recognized, fostering a learning experience that goes beyond the conventional.
Beyond the office walls, our relationships with clients are characterized by a great sense of ease. The atmosphere is relaxed yet professional, making it easy to connect with clients on a personal level.
This blend of professionalism and warmth contributes to strong and lasting client relationships.
FUN FACT!
Vusa loves debating and will take on any topic to tackle! This could go easily start over coffee in the morning and end over a glass of wine at the end of the day!
If he is not looking to taste-test good food, he is out on the basketball court or hitting the Saturday morning park run to refuel!
Ayla Brown - Candidate Legal PRACTITIONER
Welcome to Hildebrand Attorneys, where professionalism meets passion! As a candidate attorney at our close-knit law firm, Ayla brings a diverse blend of interests and experiences to the table. Outside the office, you’ll find me immersed in the pages of a good book, staying active with outdoor adventures and cherishing quality time with my family – including our beloved dogs. But there’s more to Ayla than just legal acumen; she's currently training for her first 10km race and rediscovering the joy of horse riding.
In the office, she approaches her role with the same enthusiasm and dedication that fuels her extracurricular pursuits. Her role at the firm isn’t just about drafting documents and attending court; it’s about fostering a positive atmosphere and building strong relationships with both colleagues and clients.
In her own words: 'With my passion for law, love for creativity, and zest for life, I aim to bring a dynamic energy to our team'!
Fun Fact!
Ayla is an animal lover, even though she has a fear of snakes. What the office may (or may not) know about her is that she can cook a mean Thai green curry!
Janke Mouton and Kelly Oliver - Legal Support
As the youngest member of our team, Janke is a devoted legal secretary at the firm, who enjoys supporting our incredible legal professionals in their daily adventures. Whether it entails taking on extra tasks that keep their days running smoothly or simply offering them a cup of coffee and a quick chat.
When she's not helping our team with their legal matters and making life a little easier, she's busy planning fun office festivities with our wonderful receptionist, Kelly. Together, they brainstorm creative ideas to bring a little joy to our workplace whilst embracing all our unique personalities! In her own words, 'My role not only allows me to learn more about the legal industry but also our team'.
Outside of the office, she's all about adventure. Going on road trips and exploring new places, she's always on the lookout for the next exciting experience. One surprise aspect about her is that she also has a knack for cooking multicultural dishes, and her all-time favourite has to be breyani! Her belief is that trying new things keeps life vibrant, and she brings that spirit into everything she does here at the Firm!
Kelly is our Office Administrator and the proud right hand to our Managing Director. Her role extends far beyond traditional reception duties—she's dedicated to ensuring that our office runs smoothly and efficiently. She believes in creating a vibrant, positive work environment, and loves organising team lunches and cheerful birthday celebrations that bring us all together. Keeping things light and fun is important to her, as she knows that a happy team is a productive one!
She strives to support her colleagues and helps wherever she can, even if it means stepping outside her usual responsibilities. For her, the value of a good work-life balance is essential and spreading positivity throughout the office, goes without saying.
In her free time, she treasures quality moments with her family and friends, which fuels her passion for fostering connections at work.
Fun Fact!
Janke makes a flavourful Breyani and have yet to test the palates of her team mates. This, we believe, is something to look forward to!
Kelly makes no secret that she enjoys a good series and loves being surrounded by little humans of friends and family because in her view, she is the perfect babysitter!