Christopher Ĺiedeman

Admitted Attorney and experienced Prosecutor with over 13 years of service within the National Prosecuting Authority across District and Regional Courts. Demonstrates a strong record in prosecuting complex common law and statutory offences, preparing and reviewing case dockets, drafting charge sheets and court documents, and conducting all phases of trial work including leading and cross-examining witnesses. Experienced in training and guiding junior and trainee prosecutors, and in performing administrative management functions.

Committed to acting independently and with professionalism, accountability, and credibility in full accordance with the NPA's code of conduct, policies, and directives.

Regional Court Prosecutor at National Prosecuting Authority – South Africa (2021-12 – 2024-05)

Prosecuted complex criminal matters in the Regional Court across a range of difficult common law and statutory offences, acting independently and exercising sound prosecutorial discretion.

• Studied case dockets thoroughly, assessed evidence, and decided on the institution and conduct of criminal proceedings in the Regional and District Court.
• Prepared cases for court, drafted charge sheets and court documents to a high standard, and ensured all proceedings were conducted in accordance with NPA policy and directives.
• Led and cross-examined witnesses, presented the State's case, and addressed court on conviction and sentence across a variety of complex matters.
• Assisted and guided less experienced prosecutors in presenting the State's case, including in leading witnesses and addressing court.
• Dealt with maintenance matters and more advanced matters requiring specialised prosecutorial skills.
• Identified gaps in dockets and directed further investigation, giving clear instructions to investigating officers on evidentiary standards and procedural requirements.
• Promoted partner integration and community involvement in conjunction with SAPS and other role-players in the criminal justice system.

Acting Office Manager at National Prosecuting Authority – South Africa (2013-01 – 2021-12)

• Assisted the Senior Public Prosecutor with performance assessment of prosecutors, including preparing assessments and giving feedback in line with NPA performance management frameworks.
• Managed day-to-day office administration including case-flow management, resource allocation, and compliance with NPA policy directives.
• Supervised, trained, and guided lower-level prosecutors and trainee prosecutors in docket preparation, charge sheet drafting, and court conduct.
• Managed work allocation to ensure efficient throughput and alignment with operational targets set by the NPA and DPP office.
• Attended to representations and complaints and forwarded instructions from the Senior Public Prosecutor and Chief Prosecutor.
• Promoted accountability, professional conduct, and adherence to the NPA code of conduct across the team.

District Court Prosecutor at National Prosecuting Authority – South Africa (2010-10 – 2021-11)

Managed a high-volume caseload in the District Court, prosecuting a wide range of common law and statutory offences at all levels of complexity.

• Studied and reviewed dockets, decided on institution of criminal proceedings, and prepared matters fully for court.
• Drafted charge sheets, court documents, and prosecutorial correspondence consistently and under time pressure.
• Led evidence, cross-examined witnesses, and addressed court on conviction and sentence in a wide range of criminal matters.
• Handled maintenance matters and inquests as part of general prosecutorial duties.
• Consulted with complainants, witnesses, and investigating officers to assess matters, determine strategy, and manage expectations.
• Trained and mentored trainee prosecutors in docket preparation, prosecutorial procedure, and courtroom conduct.
• Performed general administrative duties of the office, including reporting and record-keeping in line with NPA requirements.

Candidate Attorney & Professional Assistant at Legal Aid South Africa (2008-01 – 2010-07)

• Conducted legal research and drafted pleadings, affidavits, and client correspondence in support of litigation and dispute resolution.
• Developed core skills in evidence analysis, case preparation, and legal documentation within a public-interest environment.

ESL Teacher at Intramoleepratan School – Thailand (2024-10 – 2026-03)

• Delivered structured lessons and assessments; strengthened cross-cultural communication, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Bachelor of Laws in Law – University of the Western Cape (2007)

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa in Law – Law Society of South Africa (2010-02)

Senior Certificate in Grade 12 – Saxonsea Secondary School (2001)