Do I need an attorney at the CCMA?

Not automatically. Representation by an attorney or advocate must be approved by the commissioner, typically only for complex matters. You can use a union official, co-employee, or other representative at any stage.

What if the CCMA award is wrong?

Review applications to the Labour Court must be lodged within 6 weeks. The Labour Court can review awards that are 'reasonable on the available evidence' - a deferential test. Successful reviews are not guaranteed.

Can CCMA awards be appealed?

Awards are not appealed - they are reviewed (a narrower test). Review grounds include bias, procedural unfairness, and commissioners reaching conclusions no reasonable commissioner could have reached.

CCMA Disputes Attorneys

Representation at CCMA conciliation and arbitration proceedings. Browse 391 LPC-registered attorneys across South Africa.

Reviewed by the Justibly editorial team·Updated April 2026

The CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) is the statutory body that hears most employment disputes. Jurisdiction includes unfair dismissal, unfair labour practice, discrimination, pay disputes, and certain strike-related matters. The CCMA is designed to be accessible - parties can represent themselves. Referrals have strict time limits: 30 days for dismissal, 90 days for discrimination.

When to hire a ccma disputes attorney

You need to refer a dispute to the CCMA within 30 days of dismissal.
Your CCMA case is going to arbitration and involves complex facts.
The employer has filed an application to postpone or stay.
You need to review a CCMA award in the Labour Court.
Both parties are represented and the case has legal complexity.

What to expect

Refer the dispute using Form 7.11 within the 30/90 day deadline. The CCMA schedules conciliation (a 30-day window) - an informal meeting to try to settle. If unresolved, the matter proceeds to arbitration, a formal hearing with sworn evidence and cross-examination. A commissioner issues a binding award (usually within 14 days of arbitration). Reviews of awards go to the Labour Court.

Typical fees

CCMA referral and representation: R8,000-R35,000 for the full process. Labour Court reviews: R40,000-R200,000+. Self-representation is possible and common at conciliation stage.

Legal information, not legal advice. This page provides general information about ccma disputes in South Africa. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney. Laws and procedures change - consult a verified attorney for your specific matter.

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CCMA Disputes Attorneys

When to hire a ccma disputes attorney

What to expect

Typical fees

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