Bernadt Vukic Potash & Getz and its predecessors in title trace their history back to 1931. Our former senior partner Mr Himan (Himie) Bernadt had the distinction of being in practice for over 70 years. In addition to its focus on commercial work the firm, and in particular, Himie Bernadt, was involved in human rights work.

Prior to the advent of a legitimate and fully representative democracy in South Africa, Himie Bernadt’s clients (in addition to extensive corporate clients) included former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela while he was on Robben Island and other political prisoners including Walter Sisulu. He was also an invited guest at President Mandela’s inauguration and was awarded the Order of Luthuli in Silver for “providing legal defence to anti-apartheid activists and excellent contribution in advancing justice and human rights in the legal field” after he passed away in December 2007.

Today, the firm has evolved into a boutique corporate law service provider, focusing on both local and international corporate clients needs in regard to all aspects of Commercial and Corporate Law, including Mergers and Acquisitions, Listings, Property Law and Developments, Commercial Litigation (including bankruptcy and business rescue), Labour Law and Wills and Estate Planning. The firm’s client base includes a number of clients listed on the Johannesburg and international Stock Exchanges.