It is not always necessary to hire a lawyer for a dispute at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in South Africa. However, having a lawyer can be beneficial in certain situations.
If the dispute is complex or involves a large amount of money, it may be in your best interest to hire a lawyer to represent you. A lawyer can help you present your case in the strongest possible manner, and can also advise you on the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Additionally, a lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and understand your rights and options under the law.
If the dispute is relatively simple and you feel comfortable representing yourself, it may not be necessary to hire a lawyer. The CCMA provides free advice and assistance to parties who are appearing before it. You can also get legal representation from Legal Aid South Africa, they are a public entity that provides legal aid to those who cannot afford it.
Ultimately, whether or not to hire a lawyer for a CCMA dispute is a personal decision that depends on the complexity of the case, the amount of money involved, and your own level of comfort with the legal process.