Tribunal finds 'prima facie evidence' against attorney

IN A SIGNIFICANT ruling, the Appeals Tribunal of the Legal Practice Council (LPC) has upheld a misconduct complaint brought by Johannesburg-based father, ‘Asif Casoojee, against attorney Kaamilah Paulse of Herold Gie Attorneys.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

Casoojee has been locked in a four-year legal battle with his former spouse over access to their two children. Paulse represents his spouse.

Casoojee reported Paulse to the LPC, accusing her of dishonesty, unethical and dishonest conduct, including orchestrating parental alienation, misusing the Protection from Harassment Act, and unlawfully interfering in his private and professional affairs.

The case not only raises serious questions about the conduct of legal professionals in family law matters but also highlights challenges faced by fathers in the South African legal system when fighting for contact with their children.

In its findings delivered on March 13, 2025, the Appeals Tribunal found that Casoojee had presented prima facie evidence of misconduct on both counts.