Judiciary mourns death of Judge Taswell Papier

Judge Taswell Papier (Photo: Taswell Papier / LinkedIn)

The South African judiciary has expressed its condolences following the death of Judge Taswell Papier of the Western Cape Division of the High Court.

Judge Papier died Tuesday, leaving a lasting legacy of service, compassion and dedication to justice, according to the chief justice’s office.

He studied law at the University of the Western Cape during the 1980s and was active as a student and academic. He later obtained a master’s degree in human rights law from Harvard University before returning to South Africa to open his own practice in Mitchells Plain.

He was particularly known for his work among poor and vulnerable communities in Western Cape townships.

He was also a pioneer in the field of access to justice and helped establish pro bono programs in the legal profession. These programs later became a requirement for legal practitioners.

Papier received several awards, including an international award for his work in human rights and community service, and was actively involved in the national association of democratic lawyers (Nadel).

“Since his appointment to the bench, he has served with integrity and distinction, ruling on important cases that advanced constitutional rights, administrative justice and fairness. He was also known as a mentor to young jurists,” said the statement by the chief justice’s office.

He is survived by his wife, Joy, their son Roscoe, daughter Kayla, as well as his parents and sister.

“We express our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. His legacy of justice and humanity will live on.”