About Lizé
"I am currently serving my articles at Coetzer Steyn Taljaard Inc Attorneys, where I am gaining practical experience across various areas of the legal profession, with a strong emphasis on conveyancing. I enjoy its methodical and procedural nature, as well as the balance between structured processes and the occasional complex matter that keeps the work engaging and dynamic."
Background
"My path into law has been anything but linear, yet each step has contributed meaningfully to where I am now. Before entering the legal profession, I studied finance, worked in banking, and later joined a bond origination team. These experiences broadened my understanding of the financial and procedural frameworks underpinning conveyancing and property transactions, and they now inform the way I approach matters with greater insight and context."
On enrolling at the Gawie le Roux Institute of Law
"I chose the GLR PVT School primarily because of the convenience and flexibility it offered in comparison to other programmes. While the programme still required significant time and effort, it allowed me to ensure that my family responsibilities, personal wellbeing, and safety were properly managed while completing my training. That balance was crucial for me.
The lecturers were highly knowledgeable and approachable. Even for subjects I could not attend in real time, the content remained accessible and engaging. In particular, Johan van Stade’s lectures were a real highlight. His humour and enthusiasm made the learning experience both enjoyable and memorable."
400-hour vs 150-hour PVT programme of structured course work
"I opted for the 400-hour PVT programme because I believed it would provide a more comprehensive and in-depth practical foundation. My aim was not only to prepare adequately for the board examinations, but also to enter the profession with a stronger understanding of practice-related aspects that are not always covered in theory alone. In hindsight, I am confident that this broader exposure was the right choice for me."
On facing challenges
"During the programme, I experienced the loss of my father, to whom I was very close. Proceeding with the final stages of the PVT programme while grieving was extremely difficult. Concentration and motivation were hard to maintain, but I persevered, largely because I did not want the effort already invested to go to waste. Completing the programme under those circumstances required resilience and determination, and it remains one of the most difficult periods of my academic journey."
Lizé's tips for PVT students
"Consistency is key. Do not fall behind if you can help it. The programme is manageable if you commit the necessary time and effort on a continuous basis."
"There will be many moments where you would rather rest, relax, or spend time with family, but steady progress makes a significant difference in the long run."
What's next?
"This is a difficult question to answer definitively, as life has a way of changing plans. My immediate goal is to write the board examinations in March, and I sincerely hope to pass. Beyond that, I would like to pursue conveyancing and, thereafter, the notarial examinations.
However, my children are in their final year of school, and in 2026, I would like to focus more intentionally on them. Balancing family, work, and studies has not been easy, and while I have always tried to maintain a workable balance, it has required sacrifices. For now, my priority is to take things one step at a time."
A final word
"None of my achievements are mine alone. Without my family, none of this would have been possible. My husband encouraged me to pursue formal studies when I doubted my ability to commit to a degree. My parents-in-law provided invaluable support by helping care for our children in countless ways.
During my legal studies, we lost both my father-in-law and my own father. There were many moments when quitting felt like the easier option. In hindsight, however, the journey has been fulfilling for reasons far beyond academic achievement. It has taught me resilience, perspective, and personal growth that extend well beyond legal knowledge."
Last updated on 6 January 2026.