PROMOTION: Congratulations to Melissa Lazarus, new DRC Commissioner

Melissa Lazarus, who was recently promoted to Commissioner in DRC Randburg, is a legal professional with an impressive academic and professional background that spans over a decade.

She holds an LLB degree from the University of the Witwatersrand and a master’s degree in law from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Demonstrating a commitment to furthering her legal expertise, Melissa is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Law at the University of Johannesburg, having been awarded a prestigious bursary to support her studies.

As an admitted attorney of the High Court, Melissa has garnered extensive experience in criminal, civil and labour litigation. Her career includes significant roles within the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Justice, and Legal Aid South Africa, where she has honed her skills and contributed to the legal field.

In addition to her professional practice, Melissa shared her knowledge and passion for law as an ad hoc lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, inspiring and educating future generations of legal professionals in the LLB programme and the postgraduate programme on Forensics Investigations and Criminal Justice.

Beyond her professional achievements, Melissa is also a dedicated wife and mother of two, balancing her career and academic pursuits with her family life and personal interests.

Melissa joined MIBCO as a legal officer in 2022 at the KZN office. Her dedication to the field and her breadth of experience will no doubt contribute to the continued success of the DRC and its objectives. Melissa lives by the motto: “Perseverance, Humility, Integrity, and Excellence in all endeavours.”