Managing IP is part of Legal Benchmarking Limited, 1-2 Paris Gardens, London, SE1 8ND

Copyright © Legal Benchmarking Limited and its affiliated companies 2026

Accessibility | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Modern Slavery Statement

Cookies Settings

Key practice areas
Intellectual property
Trade mark
Patent
Trade mark prosecution
IP transactions
Firm overview

Werksmans is a pre-eminent corporate and commercial law firm in South Africa, a status it strives to maintain each and every day.

We deliver a unique client experience, going far beyond the application of law by partnering with each client and delivering highly specialised attention, focused solutions and the best possible outcome. This disciplined approach has resulted in Werksmans being regarded as one of the most innovative firms in Africa, and beyond.

Ever aware of changing dynamics in the corporate and commercial sphere, we remain at the cutting edge of legal developments across a broad range of industries, through insightful, pragmatic, solution-driven thinking. The above-and-beyond approach we adopt in every matter ensures optimal outcome that position our clients for success.

Our unwavering commitment remains to provide elegant, simple solutions to the most complex of legal matters, and to do it with our clients’ interests at heart. A firm like ours boasts far more than just 100-years of experience and expertise. We have refined success in the corporate and commercial legal environment underpinned by the versatility of the multi-faceted and leading specialists who constitute our team.

A strong supporter of the national transformation agenda, Werksmans is fully committed to transformation and the principles of equal opportunity, inclusivity and diversity; all fundamental to our ongoing success.

This is not just a place where matters are resolved and answers are found. It is a place where new ways of thinking lead to outcomes that raise the bar for excellence. The way we work and the passion which underpins everything we do, sets the standard for legal excellence in the South African Market.

Our culture is the framework around which we have built our coveted reputation as one of the oldest, most prestigious law firms in Africa. This reputation speaks to the calibre of corporate and commercial lawyers who make up the firm; many of whom are recognised as experts in their fields by their peers both locally and abroad.

Download the firm brochure here.

Explore the Werksmans Practice Areas.

Address:
The Central
96 Rivonia Road
Sandton 2146
Tel:+27 11 535 8000 Fax:+27 11 535 8600 Email:Contact Us Web Address:https://www.werksmans.com/
2026 Edition
IP transactions
Recommended
6 firms ranked
View full list

Highly Recommended

ENS
8 practice areas
View profile
Webber Wentzel
8 practice areas
View profile

Recommended

Adams & Adams
18 practice areas
View full profile
Dentons
6 practice areas
View profile
Spoor & Fisher
8 practice areas
View full profile
Werksmans Attorneys
5 practice areas
View full profile
Trade mark prosecution
Tier 3
14 firms ranked
View full list

Tier 1

Adams & Adams
18 practice areas
View full profile
ENS
8 practice areas
View profile
Spoor & Fisher
8 practice areas
View full profile
Von Seidels
8 practice areas
View full profile

Tier 2

KISCH IP
7 practice areas
View full profile
Moore Attorneys
7 practice areas
View profile
Smit & Van Wyk
7 practice areas
View profile

Tier 3

Webber Wentzel
8 practice areas
View profile
Werksmans Attorneys
5 practice areas
View full profile

Other Notable Firms

Bergenthuin
7 practice areas
View profile
Dentons
6 practice areas
View profile
Eversheds Sutherland
2 practice areas
View profile
RNMS
2 practice areas
View profile
de Chalains
5 practice areas
View profile
Overview

Werksmans Attorneys' Intellectual Property (IP) practice is highly regarded for its comprehensive and strategic approach to IP law. 

The team provides a wide range of services, including the registration, protection, and enforcement of trademarks, patents, designs, copyright, domain names, and plant breeders' rights. They serve a diverse clientele, including multinationals, large local companies, international sports enterprises, and individuals, both within Africa and internationally.  

Notable practitioners: Janine Hollesen

 
Testimonials

2026

"This team is truly world-class—consistently delivering expert advice with precision and care. They’re highly effective, deeply knowledgeable, and relentless in achieving results. Always timely, supportive, and approachable, they combine professionalism with genuine kindness. I trust them completely and will continue to rely on their outstanding service."

"Their administration is flawless, follow-ups are thorough, and deadlines are never missed. They operate with precision and reliability, ensuring every detail is handled seamlessly."

"Their advisory service stands out for its depth of expertise and practical insight. Every recommendation is well-researched, tailored to the situation, and delivered with clarity and confidence. They don’t just provide advice, they offer strategic guidance that anticipates challenges and drives results. Reliable, proactive, and solution-oriented, they consistently empower informed decision-making and add real value to every engagement."

"The overall quality of the service and quick turnaround times are outstanding."

Janine Hollesen

"She is truly well-rounded, consistently offering sound, strategic advice while working at an impressive pace. Her ability to combine sharp business IP acumen with a genuine human touch sets them apart, kindness and empathy remain at the core of every interaction. In today’s corporate world, where efficiency often overshadows compassion, this balance of professionalism and humanity is not only rare but invaluable."

"She communicates very well and ensures that we fully understand the advice provided. She is readily available to provide the necessary clarification when required."

 

2025

"Fast, precise, knowledgeable, professional and always available."

Linked Reviews
IP transactions

Case studies show that the firm assisted the client, Petredec Holdings a world leader in LPG shipping and trading about transactions under internal restructuring and the sale of intangible assets with all the IP residing in the Holding company.  

Trade mark

Case studies show that the firm assisted the client, Monster Energy in opposition to the M Logo mark in the name of Merck in South Africa. 

Danielle Fiffis a key practitioner to watch.

 
Sponsored

Sponsored