Founded in 1971, Thapelo & Sullivan Partners is one of Southern Africa's most respected international law firms. What began as a bold vision to build a world-class legal practice rooted in integrity, excellence, and justice has grown over five decades into a truly global firm with a commanding presence across South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Malta. We are not simply a law firm — we are a trusted legal partner to individuals, families, and businesses navigating some of the most complex legal challenges of their lives.
From our founding in Sandton, Johannesburg, our founding partners Markus Thapelo and Richard Sullivan built a firm that combined the gravitas of traditional legal practice with the agility required for an increasingly interconnected world. As our clients' needs expanded beyond South African borders, so too did our reach — first into the United Kingdom and subsequently into Malta, cementing our position as a truly international firm uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Africa and Europe.
Today, Thapelo & Sullivan Partners stands as a testament to what over five decades of dedication, resilience, and principled legal practice can build. With internationally qualified attorneys operating across three jurisdictions and six core practice areas, we continue to uphold the founding values that have defined this firm since 1971.
Over five decades of legal excellence has earned us the trust of clients across South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Malta. Here is what some of them have to say about their experience with Thapelo & Sullivan Partners.
Going through a divorce is never easy, but Markus Thapelo made the entire process bearable. He fought tirelessly for my children's best interests and kept me informed every step of the way. I could not have asked for a more compassionate and capable attorney.
Dr. Amelia Grant provided outstanding counsel during a highly sensitive academic governance dispute at our institution. Her deep understanding of education law and her calm, strategic approach helped us resolve the matter swiftly and professionally. We continue to rely on her expertise to this day.
I was facing serious criminal charges and did not know where to turn. Adv. Pieter Molefe took on my case with confidence and dedication, and ultimately secured my acquittal. His command of the courtroom and his thorough preparation were unlike anything I had ever witnessed. I am forever grateful.
After my accident I felt completely lost and overwhelmed by the legal process. Daniel Whitaker took my case and fought relentlessly until I received the full compensation I deserved. He was transparent, empathetic, and incredibly thorough. Thapelo & Sullivan Partners gave me my life back.
Jonathan Clarke's knowledge of Maltese and South African property law is exceptional. He guided us through a complex commercial acquisition across two jurisdictions without a single hiccup. His attention to detail and responsiveness set him apart from any attorney I have worked with before.
We engaged Jonathan Clarke to assist with a portfolio of property acquisitions in South Africa and Malta. His expertise across both jurisdictions saved us significant time and cost. The entire team at Thapelo & Sullivan Partners operates with a level of professionalism that is genuinely world class.
Richard Sullivan and his team handled our cross-border merger with absolute precision. What could have been an overwhelming process was made seamless by their expertise and professionalism. Thapelo & Sullivan Partners is truly in a league of their own when it comes to international business law.
Dr. Amelia Grant helped us fight for our son's rights after he was unfairly expelled from his university. She was thorough, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable. Thanks to her, our son was reinstated and was able to complete his degree. We cannot thank her and the firm enough.
At Thapelo & Sullivan Partners, our attorneys are more than legal practitioners — they are dedicated advocates committed to delivering excellence across every case. With expertise spanning six areas of law and a presence across South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Malta, our team brings together decades of combined experience, international qualifications, and a shared commitment to justice.
Tell us about your matter and one of our qualified attorneys will get back to you promptly.
With offices across three countries, Thapelo & Sullivan Partners is strategically positioned to serve clients wherever they are.
Phone: +356 (0) 8007 8743
Email: malta@ts-partnerslaw.com
Our London office extends our legal reach into Europe, serving clients across England and Wales with the same standard of excellence.
Phone: +44 (0) 7360 267151
Email: uk@ts-partnerslaw.com
Our founding headquarters, established in 1971. The heart of our operations and home to our full team of specialist attorneys serving clients across Southern Africa and beyond.
Phone: +27 (0) 82 077 0000
Fax: +27 (0) 12 333 2006
Email: joburg.za@ts-partnerslaw.com
Address: 90 Rivonia Road, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa