In a notice issued on July 1, Judiciary Chief Registrar Sarah Langa informed court bailiffs that they have until July 31, 2024 to submit copies of their academic documents to the Court Bailiffs Licensing and Disciplinary Committee. Failure to do so will result in the revocation of their licenses, effectively forcing them to cease operations.
New Education Requirements for Court Bailiffs
The Judiciary implemented new rules in 2022, stipulating that court bailiffs must possess a minimum of a diploma in law to be licensed. This was a significant change, as many bailiffs had previously operated without the required educational background.
To accommodate the transition, the Judiciary opened a two-year grace period, allowing bailiffs time to acquire the necessary diploma. However, this window is set to close on December 31, 2024, leaving the remaining unqualified bailiffs with a final deadline of July 31, 2024 to submit their academic documents.
Importance of Court Bailiffs
Court bailiffs play a crucial role in the judiciary, responsible for tasks such as attaching property for sale, levying distress for rent, and carrying out evictions under court orders. The Judiciary’s move to enforce stricter educational standards aims to professionalize and strengthen this important function.
With the impending deadline, court bailiffs who have yet to fulfill the new diploma requirement must act swiftly to avoid the revocation of their licenses and the disruption of their businesses. The Judiciary’s directive underscores the importance of maintaining a qualified and accountable court bailiff system.
