Have you noticed the imposing architecture before you? It’s the High Court, South Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg. This courthouse has witnessed significant moments in South Africa’s legal history.
The High Court, South Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg wasn’t always known by that name. Its roots stretch back to the late 19th century. In the 1880s a High Court of the Witwatersrand was established here after the first Anglo-Boer war. Before that Johannesburg was simply served by a circuit court from Pretoria.
Picture this: the late 1800s. The discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand transforms Johannesburg into a booming hub. The need for a local court becomes undeniable. The High Court of the Witwatersrand emerges to meet this demand.
The court’s existence was disrupted by the Second Anglo-Boer War. Like many institutions it ceased to function during the conflict. However the wheels of justice would turn again.
After the war in 1902 the Supreme Court of Transvaal was re-established. This occurred when Transvaal became a self-governing British colony. The wheels of justice were turning once more.
In 1910 a significant change occurred. The Transvaal Provincial Division was established. The Witwatersrand Local Division also came into being around the same time. It held concurrent jurisdiction over Johannesburg and its surrounding areas.
For many years it was known as the Witwatersrand Local Division. Then in 2009 the name changed to the South Gauteng High Court. Finally in 2013 it became the Gauteng Local Division of the High Court of South Africa, Johannesburg.
This High Court handles a wide array of cases. These include civil trials motions and criminal trials. It deals with commercial court cases and equality court cases too. You see many important legal matters decided within these walls.
The Gauteng Local Division shares jurisdiction with the Gauteng Division in Pretoria. Together they oversee the entire Gauteng province. This division has 42 courtrooms including 18 criminal courtrooms.
Imagine the intensity within those criminal courtrooms. Some High Court criminal courts even hold sessions at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court. This ensures that justice is accessible across the region.
Since November 2012 Judge President Dunstan Mlambo has led the Gauteng High Courts. His leadership guides the court in its mission to uphold the law. He is one of many judges to serve.
Notable figures have served as Judges President over the years. Jacob de Villiers and John Wessels both went on to become Chief Justices of South Africa. Their time here was a stepping stone to higher judicial office.
The High Court, South Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg stands as a pillar of the legal system. It’s a place where justice is pursued. It shapes the lives of countless individuals and communities. The history of this building is the history of Johannesburg itself.