Alleged fake lawyer to conduct own defence in fraud case
Alleged fake lawyer Brenda Wardle, who regularly provided legal analysis for prominent news organisations for years, was yesterday adamant she would conduct her own defence in her fraud trial involving more than R0.5m. Not only will Wardle prepare her own papers for trial, she told the Port Elizabeth Commercial Crimes Court that she also wants to conduct her own defence at her intended bail appeal.
She rejected advice from the state prosecutor suggesting she use legal aid. Magistrate Lionel Lindoor also pointed out to Wardle that she could use judicare, a system where an independent attorney could be appointed for her case. A report on the IoL site notes the 56-year old is also facing charges related to pretending to be a lawyer and offering ‘services’ to a convicted murder.
The state alleges that during April 2009 and August 2013, Wardle was paid R538 766 to assist jailed Stephanus van Aardt, who was requesting early release on parole. The state alleges that Wardle pretended to be an attorney, but she failed to bring an application for Van Aardt’s early release. Wardle indicated in court yesterday that she intended to plead not guilty to the charges against her. The case was postponed to 11 August.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
