The late Mr John Leslie Smith founded the company on the 04th of April 1921 as a family concern; it is easy then to imagine that James Smith, our current chairperson and heir to the throne was destined to be a lawyer since birth. James was born and educated in Pietermaritzburg. He attended St Charles College, Pietermaritzburg and matriculated in 1964. James studied law at the University of Natal and was admitted as an Attorney and Conveyancer in 1971.
James handles matters in estate planning, wills, agreements, trusts and conveyancing related matters. He is also active in the commercial field of the practice, which includes the registration and incorporation of Close Corporations, Companies and Trusts. James also oversees the registration of both commercial and personal bonds for a prominent bank. Despite his constantly busy lifestyle we were able to track James down for a little chat…
James, which words would you say best describe you?
Delicious, gorgeous, caring… I could go on and on.
What makes a good attorney?
A person that has the ability to pursue and constantly acquire knowledge of every aspect of the law. I know the general principles applicable in all areas of law but I have an in-depth knowledge of the areas of law I generally deal with. I really do believe that this quality is what separates the excellent attorneys from the mediocre ones.
If you did not pursue a career as an attorney, what career would you have pursued?
I wouldn’t know. My father, brothers, uncles and my cousin were all attorneys. I didn’t even think of any other possible career choices.
How long have you been with J Leslie Smith & Company?
I joined the firm in 1970. A lot has changed over the past 40 years and the firm has grown tremendously which I am very proud of.
What has been your most memorable experience in law?
It is definitely from when I was a clerk. I enjoyed the social interaction that occurred between the clerks and the attorneys. The legal fraternity was much smaller in those days and the clerks knew all the attorneys in town and interacted with them regularly.