Client Focused
We provide a variety of legal services tailored to our clients specific needs, allowing them to focus on their business while we handle the legal issues.
Protecting the Law Since 1902
Established in October 1902 when Edward Jeffrey Holgate & Fred Blamey formed their partnership.
In 1955 the firm merged with Renaud, Fellows-Smith & Mooney with whom they had a long & close association. This resulted in the name change to Mooney Ford & Partners. The firm continued under this name from 1955 – 2002 when it changed its name to the present day Mooney Ford Attorneys.
Various prominent attorneys have practised at Mooney Ford, including the legendary Jack Mooney, a well known sportsman and Wally Chaplin, who, in the 1960s, was a President of the Natal Law Society and President of the then Association of Law Societies.
Today Mooney Ford is made up of a number of partners practising in various specialist and general fields of law. The firms head office is located at The Boulevard in Park Lane, Umhlanga Ridge, Durban and also offers a conveniently located branch office at Bristol House in Hillcrest for those clients who live and work in the outer west area of eThekwini.
Our Philosophy
Team Driven
Our clients have the benefit of experienced attorneys focusing on each individual matter, addressing their concerns in order to find the best solution.
Forward Thinking
We keep abreast of new developments in the ever changing field of law, researching current trends & precedents both local and overseas.
Our Team is
Experienced Diverse Growth-Centered Compassionate Accomplished Collaborative
Mooney Ford is a partnership of 4 partners and a number of experienced and professional associates and paralegals.
We are a Level 2 rated BBBEE, majority black-owned entity and subscribe to transformation and employment equity principles.
The majority of our staff are female and come from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
We believe in constantly upskilling and advancing all of our members of staff, and we continually provide training and support programmes to facilitate empowerment and the transfer of skills and help all of our staff realise their full potential.
The fact that one of our partners began her career at Mooney Ford as a secretary is a testament to the success of our efforts.
Our Team
Ian is a seasoned attorney with over 30 years of experience in resolving complex commercial disputes, earning a reputation as a trusted business partner and advisor in the process. Ian has built a distinguished career representing corporations, partnerships, and entrepreneurs in a wide range of industries. He has particular expertise in the finance and motor industries, having represented listed companies in those fields for three decades. His expertise lies in crafting strategic solutions to disputes involving contract breaches and shareholder disagreements.
He is known for his meticulous preparation, persuasive advocacy, and ability to distil complex legal issues into clear, actionable strategies. Ian’s clients value his ability to balance aggressive representation with cost-effective resolutions, ensuring their business interests remain protected.
A graduate of the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal’s Howard College, Ian began his career as a candidate attorney at Mooney Ford, where he has practiced law ever since. He was appointed a partner in 1997 and managing partner in 2011, a position he still holds.
His notable cases include securing a Court Order for substituted service by means of Facebook Messenger, being the first attorney in South Africa to do so and creating law in the process, and winning a number of cases in the Supreme Court of Appeal which were subsequently reported.
Ian appears regularly in person in various forums, including the High Court.
Ashton Naidoo is a commercial litigator with a focus on resolving business disputes, including insolvency matters, shareholder conflict, and contractual breakdowns. He is known for his ability to reduce complexity to its essentials and deliver clear, decisive outcomes. His approach is grounded, strategic, and always aligned with the commercial realities of his client’s business.
He holds degrees in Criminology and Law from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and began his career as a legal advisor, gaining early insight into operational and regulatory risk. Since joining Mooney Ford in 2019 as a partner, Ashton has focused almost exclusively on commercial litigation across industries where law, commerce, and conflict converge.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, Ashton acted as the sole legal advisor to the Restaurant Association of South Africa in its engagement with government. His work played a central role in the reopening of the hospitality sector. He continues to appear on East Coast Radio, offering commentary on commercial and regulatory matters.
Clients rely on Ashton for his direct advice, measured execution, and ability to bring clarity to the most complex disputes.
Michelle joined Mooney Ford Attorneys as a partner in November 2020. Michelle has 20 years’ experience practising as an attorney in the specialist field of employment and labour law.
The foundation of her labour and employment law career was established in November 1996 when she was appointed as an Associate to Judges of the Labour Court, where she served for 4 years. In 2005, Michelle was appointed as a Director of Deneys Reitz Inc. (the firm became Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Inc.) where she practised labour and employment law in the role of Director for ten years. Michelle did her articles at Mooney Ford and her joining as partner sees her career coming full circle.
Michelle’s career highlights include her appointment by a JSE listed company to advise on Employment Equity compliance and being appointed as an Acting Judge of the Labour Court
Rita joined the firm as a litigation secretary in 1999, studied for her law degree part-time and was offered articles on completing her degree.
Rita became an associate in 2006 and took up the position of partner in 2008. In addition to being a skilled litigator, Rita heads up our Estates Division.
She specializes in the administration of trusts, deceased estates and curatorship estates. She also has extensive knowledge of insurance and family law.
Louis joined the firm in 1976 and is a specialist conveyancer and notary public.
Louis is the doyen of the property industry in Durban and has substantial experience in transfers, bonds and servitudes.
He acts for a number of institutions that require specialist knowledge of property rights and registration requirements.
Louis retired as a partner in 2025 and has since continued with the firm as a consultant.
Lavona is an admitted attorney with nearly a decade of post-admission experience, having built a solid foundation in civil litigation, contractual disputes, personal injury matters and insurance law. Her legal acumen is complemented by her tenure as a legal manager within a group of companies operating in the asset management sector, where she was responsible for high-level negotiations and the implementation of complex restructuring arrangements with financial institutions, covering both secured and unsecured lending facilities.
In addition to her litigation expertise, Lavona brings a nuanced understanding of regulatory frameworks, particularly the National Credit Act and its application, having engaged extensively with the National Credit Regulator and the National Consumer Tribunal. Her pragmatic and solution-driven approach, coupled with well-honed negotiation and settlement skills, makes her a formidable practitioner in commercial spheres.
Aphile is an Associate at Mooney Ford, having joined the firm in 2025. She brings a strong commitment to client service, legal excellence, and professional integrity.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of South Africa. Her areas of practice include Commercial and Corporate Litigation, Legal Recoveries and Collections, Deceased Estates, and Liquor Licensing. She is passionate about providing tailored legal solutions that are strategic, efficient, and responsive to each client’s unique needs.
With a client-focused approach, Aphile prioritises open communication, transparency, and trust. Known for her reliability, attentive listening, and attention to detail, she consistently strives for excellence in every matter she handles.
As part of the Mooney Ford team, Aphile is aligned with the firm’s values of collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. She is committed to contributing meaningfully to the firm’s continued success in an environment that fosters forward-thinking and team-driven achievement.
She believe trust is earned by showing up with consistency, care, and integrity. For her, excellence isn’t just a benchmark, it reflects the pride she takes in supporting each client’s journey and delivering work she stands by.
Sudesh obtained a B. Proc degree and a LLB from the University of Durban Westville He was admitted as an attorney in 2001 and a conveyancer in 2003.
Sudesh is involved in all aspects of conveyancing with emphasis on mortgage bond registrations and transfers and has specialised in conveyancing during his 19 years in practice. He has extensive experience across the conveyancing spectrum from mortgage bond registration and cancellations, commercial, industrial, and residential property transfers, to subdivisions, consolidations, and sectional title development.
Sudesh joined Mooney Ford Attorneys in October 2022.
Sarah Jane Robinson holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Law and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which she obtained with distinction. In recognition of her academic achievements, she was awarded Top Student for the Independent Institute of Education Varsity College’s Class of 2019.
She completed her articles at Mooney Ford Attorneys under the supervision of Ian King, the firm’s managing partner, and was admitted as an attorney in 2025. Throughout her training and subsequent practice, Sarah has gained extensive experience in commercial and civil litigation, banking law, dispute resolution, insolvency law, and contract law.
Known for her thorough approach and strong analytical skills, Sarah is a dedicated legal professional committed to delivering effective, strategic solutions for her clients.
Sharon joined Mooney Ford in 2019 as a Client Liasion Manager in the Conveyancing Department.
In this role she acted as a key liaison between Estate Agents and the Conveyancing team, ensuring smooth communication and service delivery.
In 2022, she transitioned into a new role within the firm’s newly established Business Development Department. Sharon holds a qualification in Business and Management degree from the Gordon institute of Business Science (GIBS) and she now serves as the firm’s Business Development Manager.
Her core responsibilities include onboarding new clients, maintaining strong relationships with existing clients and managing a portfolio of key accounts. Sharon also oversees the firm’s events and social media presence and plays a central role in coordinating communication between partners, associates and clients.
Kaylen is currently serving his articles of clerkship, gaining hands-on experience in civil litigation, labour law, banking law, and commercial practice. He holds an LLB degree, which he completed cum laude at Varsity College Westville.
In his role, Kaylen assists with drafting pleadings, preparing court documents, conducting legal research, and providing support across a range of legal matters. He has been exposed to proceedings before the CCMA, Magistrates’ Court, Labour Court, High Court, and Supreme Court of Appeal, giving him a broad and practical foundation in the legal process.
He is known for his attention to detail, clear communication, and solutions-driven approach to legal challenges. As he continues his professional development, he remains focused on expanding his knowledge across diverse areas of law and contributing meaningfully to the legal profession.
His long-term goal is to become a well-rounded attorney capable of navigating both litigation and advisory roles with confidence and competence.
Sarah Jane Robinson holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Law and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which she obtained with distinction. In recognition of her academic achievements, she was awarded Top Student for the Independent Institute of Education Varsity College’s Class of 2019.
She completed her articles at Mooney Ford Attorneys under the supervision of Ian King, the firm’s managing partner, and was admitted as an attorney in 2025. Throughout her training and subsequent practice, Sarah has gained extensive experience in commercial and civil litigation, banking law, dispute resolution, insolvency law, and contract law.
Known for her thorough approach and strong analytical skills, Sarah is a dedicated legal professional committed to delivering effective, strategic solutions for her clients.
Sharon joined Mooney Ford in 2019 as a Client Liasion Manager in the Conveyancing Department.
In this role she acted as a key liaison between Estate Agents and the Conveyancing team, ensuring smooth communication and service delivery.
In 2022, she transitioned into a new role within the firm’s newly established Business Development Department. Sharon holds a qualification in Business and Management degree from the Gordon institute of Business Science (GIBS) and she now serves as the firm’s Business Development Manager.
Her core responsibilities include onboarding new clients, maintaining strong relationships with existing clients and managing a portfolio of key accounts. Sharon also oversees the firm’s events and social media presence and plays a central role in coordinating communication between partners, associates and clients.
Kaylen is currently serving his articles of clerkship, gaining hands-on experience in civil litigation, labour law, banking law, and commercial practice. He holds an LLB degree, which he completed cum laude at Varsity College Westville.
In his role, Kaylen assists with drafting pleadings, preparing court documents, conducting legal research, and providing support across a range of legal matters. He has been exposed to proceedings before the CCMA, Magistrates’ Court, Labour Court, High Court, and Supreme Court of Appeal, giving him a broad and practical foundation in the legal process.
He is known for his attention to detail, clear communication, and solutions-driven approach to legal challenges. As he continues his professional development, he remains focused on expanding his knowledge across diverse areas of law and contributing meaningfully to the legal profession.
His long-term goal is to become a well-rounded attorney capable of navigating both litigation and advisory roles with confidence and competence.
Dylan is currently completing his Articles of Clerkship in the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Banking Law departments. He obtained his LLB degree from the IIE’s Varsity College in 2023.
He has a strong passion for problem-solving, continuous learning, and embracing new challenges. He is particularly drawn to commercial matters, with a keen interest in litigation and court appearances. Known for his high level of organisation and resourcefulness, Dylan takes great pride in his work and is committed to delivering excellence in every task.
As he progresses in his legal career, Dylan remains focused on honing his advocacy skills and contributing meaningfully to the legal profession.
Diyara is a dedicated candidate attorney currently serving in the labour law department, where she is actively involved in a range of employment related matters, including disciplinary proceedings, dismissal disputes, and CCMA representations. She also contributes to company compliance initiatives, conducting policy reviews and assisting in the development of workplace procedures that align with current labour legislation and best practices. Her growing expertise is rooted in a strong academic foundation and a keen interest in advancing fair and pragmatic solutions within the employment law landscape.
With a thoughtful and client-focused approach, Diyara assists in drafting legal opinions, preparing pleadings, and supporting litigation and alternative dispute resolution processes. Her passion for justice and her commitment to continuous learning are evident in the precision and care she brings to each matter.
As she develops her career in legal practice, Diyara brings a fresh and insightful perspective, driven by curiosity, integrity, and a deep respect for the transformative role of law in the workplace.
