Top Legal Podcasts Every South African Law Student Should Listen To

Broaden Your Legal Perspective Beyond the Classroom 

Whether you are a first-year law student trying to understand what ratio decidendi means or a final-year student getting ready for articles, studying law in South Africa can feel daunting. With all the statutes, case law, assignments, and court visits, it’s easy to overlook practical legal discussions, modern debates, and real-life insights. 

That’s where legal podcasts come into play. They provide an effective (and convenient) way to enhance your grasp of the law, listen to expert opinions, and keep up with current legal news — all while commuting, going for a walk, or brewing some tea. 

Here’s a selected list of top legal podcasts that every South African law student should check out — featuring both local treasures and popular international shows that are highly relevant to South Africa’s legal system. 

🎙️ 1. Just Us Under a Tree 

Host: Section27 South Africa 

Focus: Social justice, constitutional law, public interest litigation 



Why you should listen: 

This podcast dives into the connection between law and social justice in South Africa. Made by the well-known public interest law group Section27, it showcases real cases, interviews with legal experts, and inspiring stories from community advocates. The show simplifies complex constitutional topics in ways that are easy to understand and pertinent. 

Top episodes to start with: 

“Health Justice” 

“What Is the Right to Basic Education?” 

“Covid-19 and the Constitution” 



🎙️ 2. Legal Talk South Africa 

Host: Melani & Associates Attorneys 

Focus: Everyday legal advice, practical aspects of South African law 



Why you should listen: 

This podcast takes a hands-on approach by providing clear legal advice on issues that impact everyday South Africans — covering everything from family law to property conflicts. It’s an excellent way to see how what you learn in textbooks applies to real-life legal situations. As a law student, you'll learn how lawyers communicate legal rights in simple terms, which is an important skill for your future career. 

Best for: 

Students who want to grasp legal processes, contracts, divorce law, and property law in South Africa. 

🎙️ 3. Talking Legal with Thuli Madonsela 

Host: Former Public Protector Professor Thuli Madonsela 

Focus: Ethics, leadership, constitutional law, governance 



Why you should listen: 

This podcast features thoughtful discussions on justice, governance, and leadership. With Prof. Madonsela’s background in constitutional law and public accountability, each episode explores the reasons behind legal changes and rights-based approaches. 

Great for: 

Law students interested in public law, policy issues, and legal ethics. 



Anyone getting ready for interviews or mock trials about constitutional interpretation. 

🎙️ 4. The Daily Friend Show (IRR) 

Host: Analysts and journalists from the Institute of Race Relations (IRR) 

Focus: Politics, policy analysis, legal matters 



Why you should listen: 

Although it isn’t solely a legal podcast, The Daily Friend Show provides strong analysis of current events, laws, policy ideas, and constitutional issues impacting South Africans. It’s an excellent way to see how legal concepts connect with political discussions and public management. 

Key legal topics discussed: 

Section 25 (Land Expropriation) 

Employment Equity Amendments 

Judicial appointments 



🎙️ 5. The Legal Geeks (International) 

Host: U.S. lawyers with a fun and engaging style 

Focus: Legal analysis of movies, pop culture, and technology 



Why you should listen: 

Sometimes you need a break from complex legal jargon while still learning something new. The Legal Geeks look at legal themes found in films, TV shows, and pop culture (like Marvel movies, Star Wars, and Harry Potter) and ask the question: “Would that stand up in court?” 

Though it’s based in the U.S., many topics—such as contract law, criminal law, and torts—relate well to South African law principles for comparative studies. 

Best for: 

Students interested in entertainment law or those who want a creative way to learn about legal concepts. 

🎙️ 6. The Law Report with Karen Key 

Aired on: SAfm, also available as a podcast 

Focus: Legal updates in South Africa 

Why you should tune in: 

This long-standing legal segment covers key changes in South African laws and notable cases. Karen Key interviews experts like academics, judges, and lawyers to explain important rulings and legislation. 

Listen to this if you want to: 

- Keep up with the newest laws - Understand the effects of recent court rulings - Gain insights from experts about South Africa's legal scene 

🎙️ 7. The Thinking Reeds (UCT Law) 

Host: Faculty of Law at the University of Cape Town 

Focus: The relationship between law and society, legal theories, student perspectives 

Why you should tune in: 

Made by UCT law students and professors, this podcast looks into how laws impact everyday people — covering topics from land reform to gender justice. The discussions are thoughtful, sometimes philosophical, and rooted in South African legal contexts. 

Ideal for: 

- Students studying law, social justice, or jurisprudence - Future human rights or constitutional lawyers 

🔍 Bonus Picks for Wider Legal Insight 

- The Criminal Podcast – A true crime podcast that includes legal analysis (based in South Africa) - Constitutional Court of South Africa: Judgments & Commentary – Available on YouTube and various podcast platforms - Legal Current (Thomson Reuters) – Offers global legal news; perfect for updates on legal technology and commercial law 



🧠 How to Use Podcasts Effectively as a Law Student 

1. Supplement Your Studies 

Listening to episodes related to your current courses (like constitutional or criminal law) can help you see how case law applies. 

2. Enhance Your Commercial Awareness 

Podcasts keep you informed about current social and political issues that may arise during moots, essays, or interviews. 

3. Practice Language and Argument Skills 

Observing how lawyers share their ideas, organize their arguments, and clarify concepts can help you improve your own speaking and writing abilities. 

4. Keep Your Motivation and Inspiration Alive 

Listening to experienced professionals, judges, and activists can spark your enthusiasm for law during challenging semesters. 


🎓 Final Thoughts 

Law school teaches you the rules of law, but podcasts show you how law works in real life. These audio treasures provide depth, real-world examples, and personal experiences that enhance your legal studies. Whether you're getting ready for exams, having a tough time with case law, or just need a fresh perspective, these podcasts will help you understand the law beyond what’s in the books. 

So put on your headphones, hit play, and keep moving forward on your legal journey — one episode at a time. 


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