Michael Herbst

Head of practice

LLB (Wits) | PG Dip (Commercial & Business Law) (Wits)

Michael Herbst is the founder and Head of Practice at Michael Herbst Attorneys. An accomplished legal professional, he is an expert in navigating complex legal disputes and providing strategic counsel to a diverse range of clients across various industries.

With an LLB from the University of the Witwatersrand and a Postgraduate Diploma in Commercial & Business Law from the same institution, Michael is an experienced litigator who has represented numerous organisations in various forums within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. He is known for his fierce advocacy and his ability to achieve practical and cost-effective solutions for his clients.

Beyond his litigation prowess, Michael is an entrepreneur at heart with a strong affinity for corporate and commercial law. He has advised on a wide spectrum of issues, from the conception and negotiation of transactions to their subsequent implementation. His approach is rooted in identifying pragmatic solutions that are aligned with his clients’ commercial goals, ensuring that legal advice is not just sound, but also strategically valuable. As the driving force behind Michael Herbst Attorneys, he is committed to the principles of integrity and transparency, and his leadership sets the tone for the firm’s dedication to providing innovative and tailored legal solutions. Michael’s experience, combined with his forward-thinking mindset, makes him a trusted advisor and strategic partner for businesses seeking to navigate the complexities of the modern legal landscape.

Elzeri Lombard

Associate Attorney

LLB (UP) | BCom (HR) (UP)

Elzeri quickly earned a reputation as a detail-orientated and efficient litigator. With an affinity for complex civil as well as commercial litigation and arbitration related disputes, Elzeri has represented several of the practice’s clients in various types of disputes within various courts and arbitration forums. Most notably, Elzeri has secured judgments amounting to more than ZAR 100 million for her clients against a major state liability insurer in the Republic of South Africa. In addition to her involvement in complex civil and commercial litigation as aforesaid, Elzeri has established and heads up the family law practice area within the practice.

Elzeri is actively involved in the growth and development of new practice areas within the practice as well as the development and implementation of the long-term strategic direction of the practice.

Elzeri’s personable nature and professionalism ensure that all her client’s feel both understood and supported throughout their legal journey.

Beverley Herbst

Financial Manager

Beverley is a seasoned financial professional with over three decades of extensive experience in business and financial management. She brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success to her role.

Throughout her career, Beverley has demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies of financial operations, strategic planning, and risk management within the South African business landscape.

Beverley is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the financial department. Her responsibilities include managing the firm’s financial health, implementing robust accounting systems, and providing strategic financial advice in the firm.

She is known for her meticulous attention to detail, her ability to navigate complex financial regulations, and her commitment to fostering a culture of financial responsibility and transparency.

Cayrion Chai

Administrative Assistant

Cayrion Chai is an administrative assistant with nearly three years of experience in the legal sector. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the law, she is currently working towards a formal legal qualification and plans to begin her LLB studies in 2026.