SA mourns the passing of first woman Judge, Leonora van den Heever

Zuko Komisa

Judge Leonora van den Heever, South Africa’s first woman judge, has passed away at 99, prompting tributes from the Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi.
Hailed as a principled jurist with a “rigorous legal mind,” her historic appointment paved the way for generations of women in the judiciary.
Her significant body of work includes landmark judgments protecting citizens’ rights, such as interdicting police harassment and ensuring fair trial procedures.

Judge Leonora van den Heever, South Africa’s first woman judge, has died at the age of 99.

The Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi, led tributes, hailing her as a “pioneering and principled jurist.”

The Minister stressed that Judge van den Heever’s historic appointment was instrumental in transforming the judiciary, paving the way for generations of women in law.

Her legacy is defined by integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to justice. She was known for her “sharp wit, humanity, and rigorous legal mind.”

Landmark contributions included issuing an interdict against police harassment of students and firmly correcting trial irregularities to safeguard fair procedure.

She also significantly shaped the interpretation of the Divorce Act, emphasising clear proof of a marriage’s irretrievable breakdown.

The judiciary, led by Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, joined in offering condolences.

The Chief Justice honoured her memory and encouraged the legal fraternity to emulate her strength of character and unshakeable faith in the power of the law to serve society.