Internal Process - Prosecutions & Defence, Dispute Resolution, and Litigation Unit

The Litigation and Dispute Resolution Unit constitutes the University’s primary legal enforcement and defence mechanism, mandated to protect and advance the institution’s legal and strategic interests. The Unit delivers responsive, cost-efficient, and results-oriented legal services through effective representation, structured dispute management, and proactive legal risk mitigation, in accordance with the highest standards of professional and ethical practice.

Core functions:

Internal Disciplinary Proceedings

We represent the University in the initiation and prosecution of internal disciplinary proceedings involving students, staff, and other members of the University community. We provide legal guidance on the framing of charges, evidentiary requirements, and applicable procedures, and ensure that proceedings are conducted in accordance with the rules of natural justice, institutional statutes, and applicable law. We may also support disciplinary panels during hearings to ensure consistency, proportionality, and legal defensibility of outcomes.

Defence of Actions

We represent and defend the University and its officers in civil, criminal, and administrative proceedings. Where external counsel is engaged, we retain oversight and ensure strategic alignment, quality control, and cost-efficiency in the conduct of such matters.

Dispute Resolution

We promote the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, as a first-line approach where appropriate. We advise Management on settlement strategies, legal exposure, and reputational risk, with a view to achieving commercially and institutionally sound outcomes while preserving key relationships.

Litigation Management

We manage litigation processes, including legal research, drafting of pleadings, affidavits, motions, and legal opinions. We formulate case strategy, coordinate trial preparation, conduct courtroom advocacy, and ensure strict compliance with procedural rules, court timelines, and enforcement of judgments.

Compliance and Reporting

We maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date litigation register covering all pending and concluded matters. We provide periodic reports to Management on case status, litigation trends, financial exposure, and risk assessment to support informed decision-making and institutional planning.

Team