Mining

Mining projects present unique legal and regulatory challenges that span the entire project life cycle. Leading mining practices emphasise that clients in the sector require advice on environmental compliance and permitting, workplace safety issues, contract negotiations, strategic transactions, and mine development. Firms with environmental and mining departments also stress the importance of strategic environmental‑and legal advice, risk and liability management strategies, due diligence investigations, and obtaining the necessary permits and licences.

At NLHS, we offer a comprehensive mining law service grounded in our deep knowledge of South African and regional mining legislation and the industry’s commercial realities. Our team assists clients with exploration and prospecting rights, licence and permit applications, and structuring of ownership vehicles to meet regulatory and B‑BBEE requirements. We work with multidisciplinary consultant teams to coordinate environmental impact assessments and public participation processes and to secure the required environmental and water‑use authorisations.

Our mining lawyers conduct detailed legal risk assessments and due diligence investigations for mergers and acquisitions, as well as project finance, providing clear guidance on title, compliance, and liability exposure. We also advise on mine health and safety compliance, draft and negotiate contracts for off-take, supply, joint ventures and assist with project development, infrastructure, and logistics agreements. When disputes arise, we represent clients in litigation, arbitration, and administrative proceedings, and formulate practical strategies to resolve issues such as surface-use rights, environmental claims, community engagement, and rehabilitation obligations. By combining regulatory insight with commercial acumen, we aim to guide clients through every stage of the mining cycle and help them manage risk while capitalising on opportunities.