ENS (Edward Nathan Sonnenbergs) has been a significant provider of legal services to the mining sector for a number of years. Our intimate knowledge of this sector, which is going through a transformation process as a result of the new Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act 53 of 2003, Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002, the Mining Charter and the Scorecard, has meant our clients have benefitted from our broad range of expertise. In addition, prior to May 1, 2004, the Minerals Act of 1991 was the principal legislation governing mineral rights in South Africa and this Act was subsequently replaced by the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) which contains certain transitional measures with regard to mineral rights, prospecting permits, and mining authorizations that were obtained before May 2004.
Our extensive knowledge, coupled with ENS’ expertise in other areas, including tax, mergers & acquisitions, project finance and environment, means we offer a comprehensive service to all mining clients that encompasses general legal issues as well as sector-specific areas. Our services range from the drafting of key mining agreements, which require knowledge of commercial and mining matters, to due diligences and the drafting of opinions. In addition to advising some of the old mining houses, we have a strong focus on newly established mining companies.
