Freelegaldocs launches online forum

Following the recent launch of Freelegaldocs.co.za, South Africa's first free legal document portal, the website has now launched a free online legal forum. "We simply couldn't ignore the demand here, and have signed up three firms of attorneys - Bregman Mitchley (Gauteng), Colin Muller (CT) and Guy and Associates (CT) - to assist with the project," says website founder James Foxcroft.

Now users of Freelegaldocs.co.za can login and post legal queries of any nature, share legal experiences, or browse similar topics. The assisting attorneys will then respond, or steer users in the right direction depending on the circumstances.

"In the same way as the document database is increasing, we hope the forum discussions will also evolve into a useful "FAQ" of common legal issues, so that this section too will ultimately become a form of online library," says Foxcroft.

Since the launch of Freelegaldocs in July, the response from the public to the free document service has been so phenomenal, and the demand for documents so high, that the website has become an ever-increasing database of documents and categories.

Recent additions include a basic guide on how to complete your Section 51 Manual in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (submission deadline 31 August 2005), sample ante-nuptial contracts and DTI grant applications.

"Naturally we are adamant that this does not cost the public a cent, so membership is, of course, free," says Foxcroft.