History

DFO was founded in 1888 by Henry George Drake and Marius Toger Flemmer, both Boer War veterans. These “founding fathers” were succeeded by descendants who became partners at the firm. In 1910, DFO was appointed chief agents to the Royal Insurance Company (later known as Mutual & Federal).

As one of the oldest and largest established law firms in East London, DFO has an invariable reputation in the Eastern Cape and nationally, and strong maritime law connections internationally.

Group Transformation Report 2020/21

See how we contribute to transformation in the legal industry!
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Group Transformation Report 2020/21

See how we contribute to transformation in the legal industry!
VIEW

Meet Our Professionals

Angus Pringle

Director

 

Bongani Qangule

Director

Bongani specialises in General Litigation, Personal Injury Claims and Road Accident Fund Claims as a Director in DFO's Litigation Department.
 

Ingrid Gaertner

Director

Ingrid is passionate about her areas of expertise and believes in honesty, expert advice and a strong work ethic. With... a calm personality, she has the ability to gain the trust of her clients, working on a personal level in assisting them with future planning.
 

Richard Jardine

Director

Experienced and multifaceted, Richard is a Director in the firm’s Property Department where he specialises in Bond Registrations and Cancellations.... Richard works closely with the relevant financial institutions to ensure a streamlined, speedy and smooth bond registration process for the benefit of both the clients and the banks.
 

Shaun Mathie

Director

Shaun is a Director in the firm’s Commercial, Litigation and Conveyancing Departments where he specialises in all manner of civil... Magistrate and High Court Litigation. He has earned an impressive range of cases and clients through his enthusiastic and committed approach to legal matters.
 

Sonja Nel

Director

Sonja, a vital cog in the firm’s management, is a Director in the firm’s Recoveries and Correspondent Department and also... specialises in General Litigation. She heads up the efficient and well-oiled department, showing sterling organisational skills in the management of her team.
 

Terence Mathie

Director

Terence is a Director in the firm’s Property and Commercial Law Departments, expertly advising and guiding his clients from the... negotiation of a deed of sale through to the conclusion of their property transaction.
 

Samantha Vockerodt

Senior Associate

 

Lonwabo Ndwandwa

Associate

 

Tasmyn Foster

Associate

043 722 4210
 

Thandokazi Mgudlwa

Associate

043 722 4210
 

Zintle Matshaya

Associate

043 722 4210