Intergovernmental Relations

At W Langson & Associates Inc., we provide expert legal services in matters involving intergovernmental relations, supporting the constitutional and cooperative governance framework that underpins South Africa’s three spheres of government—national, provincial, and local. Our services are designed to promote lawful, efficient, and accountable interactions between governmental bodies and to resolve jurisdictional or operational disputes that may arise between them.

Our Services in Intergovernmental Relations

• Advisory on Constitutional Mandates
  Clarifying the roles and responsibilities of different government spheres under the Constitution, particularly where overlapping or conflicting mandates exist.

• Drafting and Reviewing Intergovernmental Agreements
  Assisting in the preparation and legal review of cooperative governance agreements, memoranda of understanding, service-level agreements, and protocols.

• Dispute Resolution Between Government Entities
  Advising on mechanisms provided under the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act and related legislation for managing and resolving disputes through negotiation, mediation, or judicial processes.

• Facilitating Cooperative Governance
  Legal guidance on effective participation in intergovernmental forums, councils, and committees, and the establishment of coordinated governance strategies.

• Institutional and Policy Compliance
  Ensuring compliance with statutory obligations that govern coordination and consultation across government entities.

• Litigation and Judicial Review
  Representing government departments or entities in matters involving the review of administrative decisions, procedural fairness, or conflicts between different arms of government.

Why Intergovernmental Relations Matter

Effective intergovernmental relations are essential for service delivery, policy implementation, and the realisation of constitutional rights. Poor coordination or unlawful interference between government departments or spheres can undermine development, governance, and public trust.

We assist clients—whether in the public or quasi-public sector—to ensure that cooperative governance principles are upheld and that intergovernmental engagements are conducted lawfully, constructively, and in the public interest.

Why Choose Us

At W Langson & Associates Inc., we combine legal expertise in constitutional, administrative, and public law to provide strategic guidance in intergovernmental matters. Our experience in advising and representing government departments, municipalities, and SOEs ensures a deep understanding of the institutional dynamics and legal complexities involved in cooperative governance.