MEMBER
Overview
Shirley B. Rose is an experienced litigator with more than two decades of experience as an Advocate/Barrister in South Africa since 2000, when she was the youngest ever to be called to the bar. She brings a distinct perspective on litigation, as barristers operate independently to protect the independence of the judiciary, navigating the legal landscape from inception of a matter through to the highest courts and offering unparalleled insights into the complexities of litigation. In the courtroom, she has represented high-profile clients and played a pivotal role in recovering billions of dollars for her clients, which include defrauded pension funds.
Shirley was awarded her Red Bag, a symbol of recognition of excellence from her peers in 2008 and was honored by the Bar Council by selecting her to found new High Court Chambers on its behalf, a notable undertaking, which highlights her recognition and standing in the legal community and exemplifies her trailblazing spirit.
In 2012, Shirley accepted her first appointment as an acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa, emphasizing her exceptional legal acumen. She hails from a lineage of prominent lawyers, including her great-grandfather, General Jan Smuts, former Prime Minister of South Africa, member of the Imperial War Cabinet and one of the principal progenitors of the League of Nations and United Nations after playing a pivotal role in the Treaty of Versailles.
Beyond her legal practice, Shirley co-founded the Human Rights Committee of the Bar, demonstrating her commitment to social justice and equitable treatment under the law.
Experience
Shirley’s legal practice is diverse, encompassing complex corporate, construction, insolvency, banking, contractual dispute, and securities fraud litigation. Her experience extends beyond the courtroom, as she advises C-suite executives on corporate matters, commercial transactions, and compliance, showcasing her versatility in the legal realm. Her impact extends globally, with pivotal work in joint ventures between Fortune 500 companies and prominent African based companies and major agreements in the renewable energy sector spanning multiple continents.
As an educator and mentor, Shirley has shared her knowledge and experience, shaping the future of the legal field by mentoring aspiring legal professionals.
As an attorney at Scheef & Stone, her global perspective and exceptional legal prowess enhance the firm’s litigation department, benefiting clients across various industries. Her dedication, knowledge and commitment to justice make her a valuable asset to the team and the legal community as a whole.
Associations
- Member, Johannesburg Society of Advocates
- State Bar of Texas
Education
- B.Proc., University of Johannesburg, 1999
- L.L.B., University of Johannesburg, 2000
Honors
- Youngest to be called to the Bar – admitted to Practice as a Barrister of the High Court of the Republic of South Africa
- Ad Hoc Acting Judge of the High Court of South Africa 2012 – 2023
- Co-Founder of the Human Rights Committee of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates – 2002
- Recipient of a Red Bag in recognition of outstanding Litigation Skills – from Adv. N Kades S.C. – 2008
- Various Reported Judgments in the South African Law Reports and All South African Law Reports – 2000 – 2023
Practice Areas
- Banking Litigation and Foreclosures
- Construction Litigation
- Corporate Entity Disputes
- Shareholder Disputes
- Contract Negotiation
- E-Commerce
- Project Finance
- Insolvency
- Mergers and Acquisitions
- International Litigation
- Appellate Litigation
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Real Estate Litigation
- Negotiation and Drafting of Equipment Supply, EPC, Operation and Maintenance, Project Finance and Power Purchase Agreements
- Regulatory and Compliance Issues
- Energy Litigation
Retail and Manufacturing
- Litigation
- Litigation
- Investment theft recovery
Admissions
- Admitted to Practice as a Barrister of the High Court of the Republic of South Africa since April 2000
- Admitted to the Johannesburg Bar in July 2000
- Admitted to the State Bar of Texas
- Awaiting admission to the American Arbitration Foundation