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85 years of innovation

Having survived, changed, grown and prospered over several decades, VDT has become a prominent Gauteng firm that knows how to deliver the best results and the most innovative solutions. The firm’s longstanding 85-year history speaks for itself, making it a force to be reckoned with. VDT’s move to Brooklyn, Pretoria in 2002 signified the firm’s focus on growth and expansion.

As a firm, VDT has had a strong focus on being innovative in how we do business. This requires technological efficiency, effective management and a firm that is responsive to the needs of its clients and changes in the legal environment. Our motto, “Innovative solutions through specialised knowledge backed by more than 80 years of experience,” summarises what we as a firm stand for and have stood for.

We have consistently modernised the practice of law, and since becoming a part of the Phatshoane Henney Group of Associated Law Firms, we have amplified this initiative. As part of the PH Group, we also ensure that our firm remains relevant and is able to effectively serve clients in the long-term.

To ensure that VDT is empowered to run its practices to the best industry standards, the Phatshoane Henney Group has implemented encompassing Group standards and best practices which we comply with in respect of the firm, staff and clients. These standards and practices are unique to the Group and geared towards not only a 360-degree measurement of the firm but its continual development and alignment with industry requirements to ensure that member firms stand out as the law firm of choice for clients in their respective territories. This guarantees an innovative approach to problems, as well as innovative solutions.

VDT has had a singular, powerful goal in mind, which is to establish and position ourselves as a new breed of South African law firm – a firm that is innovative and forward-thinking, that puts their clients first and invests in our staff and transformation.

May 8, 2017
Out with maternity leave, in with parental leave

Out with maternity leave, in with parental leave

by | Dec 3, 2025 | , , , ,

A landmark judgment delivered on 3 October 2025 by the Constitutional Court of South Africa has reshaped the legal landscape governing employment and family rights. In Van Wyk and Others v Minister of Employment and Labour; Commission for Gender Equality and Another v Minister of Employment and Labour and Others (CCT 308/23) [2025] ZACC 20, the Court declared several provisions of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997 (“BCEA”) and the Unemployment Insurance Act 63 of 2001 (“UIF Act”) invalid and inconsistent with the Constitution in that they unfairly discriminate between different classes of parents.

AI regulation on the horizon

AI regulation on the horizon

by | Dec 3, 2025 | , ,

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, and everyday life. We now live in an era where information cannot be trusted at face value, and content creation blurs the lines between reality and fiction. With such a dangerous capability literally at anyone’s fingertips, it is normal to wonder whether AI is being regulated in South Africa. In this article, we look at the current position regarding AI in South Africa.

The tax distinction between local and foreign dividends

The tax distinction between local and foreign dividends

by | Dec 3, 2025 | , ,

Dividends from South African resident companies fall under the dividends tax regime and are subject to a 20% withholding tax in terms of section 64E of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962 (“Act”), known as dividends tax, rather than normal income tax. In contrast, foreign dividends are included in a taxpayer’s gross income unless relief is available under section 10B of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962, which provides a full or partial participation exemption depending on certain circumstances. In this article, we unpack the important distinction in the tax treatment of local vs foreign dividends in South Africa.

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