The Team - Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Inc

Meet the Team

Tzvi Brivik

DIRECTOR

Tzvi Brivik completed his Bachelor of Commerce Degree (BCom) at the University Of Witwatersrand in 1993. He majored in law and economics. He completed his Bachelor Of Laws Degree (LLB) in 1995 at the University of Witwatersrand. After completing his articles he commenced practice in Johannesburg before he relocated to Cape Town.

In the Labour law field, Tzvi has been involved in groundbreaking cases. He handled the first urgent application in South Africa to protect the rights of a whistleblower employed by a major bank. He was also responsible for the first application to court alleging discrimination in terms of the Protected Disclosures Act. He has further campaigned for the rights of unions to be registered and recognised within the workplace.

His approach on behalf of various unions was accepted in the Labour Appeal Court. He recently also won a major victory against the Western Cape Provincial Government on behalf of a partially-sighted client who had suffered unfair discrimination. In the field of personal injury, Tzvi has had numerous multi-million Rand judgments and settlements for injured clients and has litigated extensively in Johannesburg,
Durban, Pretoria, Kimberley and Cape Town.

He has substantial experience in medical malpractice claims and his most recent success was a wrongful birth claim for damages against two gynaecologists who failed to observe the evidence of birth defects.

AFFILIATIONS & COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS

• Executive Committee of the Cape Town Association of the Physically Disabled
• Former Executive Committee Of The Glendale Home For The Mentally Handicapped

PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS

• Member of the Cape Chamber Of Commerce
• Former President of the South African Labour Lawyers Association
(SASLAW) (Cape Town Branch) 2001 – 2003
• Member of the South African Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (SAAPlL)
• Current Liaison Officer for the Jurisdiction of South Africa and Member of the Governing
Committee of the Pan European Organisation of Personal Injury Lawyers (PEOPIL)
• Member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers United Kingdom (APIL)
• Member of the American Association for Justice (AAJ)
• Member of the South Africa Spinal Cord Association (SASCA)
• Member of the South Africa Neuropsychological Association (SACNA)

Lizanne Van Huyssteen

SENIOR ATTORNEY

Lizanne completed her Bachelor of Commerce Degree (BCom) in 2011 whereafter she completed her Bachelor of Laws Degree (LLB) in 2012. She completed both degrees at the University of Johannesburg.

After completing her articles and being admitted as an attorney, she joined Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Inc at the Johannesburg office in July 2015 where she has been heading up the Johannesburg office since joining the firm.

She has gained over ten years’ experience in Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury and Road Accident Fund claims. Lizanne has had many successful results in the recovery of damages on behalf of clients, either by way of a settlement agreement, Judgment or Order of Court.

Her most recent success was a medical negligence claim where the Supreme Court of Appeal ruled that the MEC’s “public healthcare defence” should be dismissed.

She enjoys the challenges that Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury claims bring and always strives to get the best possible results for her clients.

Lizanne is also a member of the South African Medico-Legal Association (SAMLA) and has completed many courses presented by SAMLA. She has also completed Civil Mediation Training courses.

Outside her professional career she is a wife to her husband and a mother to two young boys. She is managing both her professional responsibilities as an attorney, and her personal responsibilities as a loving and dedicated mother to her two boys.

Her interests include travelling and spending time with her friends and family, and when time allows her to do so, Lizanne finds playing the piano to be a soothing and relaxing activity.

Bridgeton Petoors

ATTORNEY

With an unwavering passion for labour law and a dedication grounded in the principle of Colossians 3:23, Bridgeton brings both expertise and enthusiasm to every case he handles.

Bridgeton earned his LLB in 2020 at the University of the Western Cape and deepened his specialization by completing his LLM in Labour Law at Stellenbosch University in 2021, with a thesis titled: The Protection of Religion in a Work-Related Setting: is Religious Freedom sufficiently protected? Following his academic achievements, he honed his skills during his articles at Miller Bosman Le Roux Attorneys in Somerset West, gaining invaluable practical experience in diverse legal matters, including civil litigation, criminal law and labour law.

He joined Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Inc. as an attorney in 2025, which marked an exciting chapter in his journey to advocate for fairness and justice in the workplace. His ambition and commitment to excellence drives him to serve clients with integrity and resolve.

As a natural people person, he thrives on building meaningful connections with clients and colleagues alike, creating an environment of trust and collaboration. Bridgeton has an insatiable curiosity and an eagerness to embrace new challenges, constantly striving to grow personally and professionally.

Outside of his legal career, he finds joy in reading books that inspire leadership and growth, particularly the works of John C. Maxwell. His insights have profoundly shaped his perspective on teamwork, influence, and the pursuit of excellence.

Kayley Mac Taish

ATTORNEY

Kayley obtained her LLB degree from the University of the Western Cape in 2023 and practises in the field of civil litigation, with experience in medical negligence, personal injury, and labour law matters.

Her work includes the preparation and management of High Court litigation, particularly in matters involving complex medical and personal injury claims. This includes the detailed analysis of medical records, coordination with specialist expert witnesses, and the preparation of medico-legal documentation in support of technically demanding litigation.

Known for her dedication, efficiency, and approachable demeanour, Kayley builds strong relationships with clients while maintaining a focused and disciplined approach to her work.

Outside of her legal practice, Kayley enjoys running and cycling, pursuits that reflect the discipline and resilience she brings to her work as a legal practitioner.

Kayla Beyer

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Kayla obtained her LLB degree from the University of Pretoria in 2024 and achieved a place on the First Year LLB Dean’s Merit List in 2021.

uring her studies, Kayla successfully completed her degree while working part-time as a data generator, gaining valuable experience balancing academic and professional responsibilities. She also has a background in education, having worked as an educator’s assistant.

Melissa Khiba

Candidate Attorney

Melissa holds a BA Law and LLB from the University of Pretoria. During her time at university, she was actively involved in the UP Moot Society, participating in Moot Court competitions and later serving as a Moot Court Assistant Judge.

She was also privileged to be involved in the Annual Child Law Moot Court Competition hosted by the Centre for Child Law, where she served as a Bailiff.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Melissa played an active role in student life. She served on the Socials Subcommittee for Law House, represented the student body, and was a member of the university netball squad.

Melissa also gained practical experience working as a brand ambassador for a student housing residence and as a part-time lead generator, where she received the Generator of the Year award.

Bianca Rosen

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Bianca obtained her Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Philosophy and Law, in 2023, and her LLB degree in 2025, both from the University of Cape Town. She earned a place on the Dean’s List in both 2024 and 2025.

Alongside her strong academic foundation, Bianca has gained practical legal experience volunteering for NGOs focused on protecting the rights of women and refugees. Bianca joins Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Inc. as a Candidate Attorney in 2026, where she commences her articles of clerkship.

Bianca is passionate about pursuing justice-based outcomes for clients with compassion, rigour, and diligence.

Outside the legal field, Bianca enjoys swimming in the ocean, playing the guitar, and taking walks in nature.

Lethokuhle Madlala

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Letho obtained her LLB degree from the University of Cape Town in 2025 and has since begun her journey in litigation, focusing on medical malpractice, personal injury, labour law, and RAF claims.

Through her work, she is developing a strong foundation in legal research, drafting, and case preparation, with a keen interest in navigating complex and sensitive matters.

Known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and approachable manner, Letho builds meaningful relationships with clients while maintaining a clear and disciplined approach to her work. She is committed to ensuring that clients feel heard, supported, and confidently guided throughout the legal process.

Her approach to practice is grounded in continuous learning, accountability, and a genuine commitment to delivering thoughtful and effective legal assistance.

Elsebeth Karsten

OFFICE MANAGER & BOOKKEEPER

Betty has 23 years of experience in the legal industry, specialising in trust, investment, and business accounting.

Over the course of her career, she has developed significant expertise in reviewing firm growth and managing technological transitions, skills that support her role as Office Manager and help ensure the efficient running of the practice.

A key lesson Betty has learned throughout her years in the industry is that time is a non-renewable resource in a law firm, requiring constant focus on keeping operations moving forward smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, Betty is a proud wife and mother who enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, as well as quiet moments building puzzles.

Lucille Paries

RECEPTIONIST AND LEGAL SECRETARY

Lucille joined Malcolm Lyons and Brivik Attorneys in 1989 as a legal secretary and personal assistant. She is currently employed as a receptionist and legal secretary working directly under Mr Brivik.

Lucille obtained a diploma in administrative and secretarial studies and regards herself as a conscientious, sincere and reliable person who is always eager to learn. She enjoys working with diverse clients from different backgrounds. She strives for excellence in everything that she does and equally tries to execute it in a professional manner.

Her interests include outdoor activities and reading.

Shabnam Ebrahim

LEGAL SECRETARY

Shabnam joined Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Attorneys in 2004 as a legal secretary working directly as the assistant to Mr Tzvi Brivik. She obtained a Diploma in Paralegal Studies in 2009 and subsequently offered an opportunity by the firm to complete a bookkeeping course in 2010.

Shabnam is a hardworking, diligent and meticulous person who excels in both individual and team settings. She thoroughly values working and engaging with people of all ages and cultures and is also a very eager, humble and fast learner.

Being an enthusiastic individual with commendable work ethic, she prides herself on integrity, reliability, consistency and success. She regards herself as a “people’s person” with a keen sense of interpersonal skills and a rather relatable personality which enables her to communicate effectively with individuals of all ages and stature.

Shabnam’s interests include reading, music, exploring human diversity like cultural aspects as well as travelling.

Thapelo Motsoage

COURT LIAISON

Thapelo has been part of the MLB team since 2017 when he joined the Johannesburg office. His role combines two key responsibilities: organizing and maintaining the files, and logistical duties that require safe and efficient transportation of documents and transporting clients to medico-legal assessments. Thapelo pays attention to detail in ensuring files are correctly labeled and documents are handled properly. Prioritizing tasks to ensure timely deliveries and filings are just one of the numerous skills he holds. Thapelo plays a crucial role in supporting the operational efficiency of the firm.

Maria Shai

Legal Secretary

I am a Multi-skilled professional with over 10years of experience in Legal Secretary and administrative skills, possessing a proven ability to provide a high level of legal secretarial support to a strong and busy team of attorneys. Well-presented and punctual ,confident and having the ability to provide all the general administrative requirements of a legal secretary.

Kesha Ferguson

Legal Secretary

I am originally from the Eastern Cape , Port Elizabeth, and I moved to Cape Town in 2022. I hold a Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice (2019) and a Diploma in Law (2022) from Nelson Mandela University, along with training in Labour Law, BBBEE, and customer service from SEESA Pty Ltd.

As a legal secretary , I manage administrative tasks, drafting of court documents, and coordinate communication to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the firm. I take pride in my attention to detail and enjoy providing exceptional support. I also enjoy working with a wide range of people and value the opportunity to contribute to the firm’s success.

While I am reserved and calm by nature, I am also highly capable of handling pressure and difficult situations with composure, ensuring that I meet the needs of the firm effectively.

In Memoriam: Malcom Lyons

FOUNDER

Photo: Malcolm Lyons with Erin Brockovich in the USA

In 1965 and with just a few files, our founder Malcolm Lyons envisaged a practice solely devoted to assisting plaintiffs in their litigation to recover damages for injuries they sustained at the hands of negligent third parties.

At the time this was a completely novel idea. There were various firms that practised insurance litigation but did not do so exclusively on behalf of plaintiffs. Those firms at that time had not considered a fee agreement contingent on success in order to provide access to justice and access to the courts which would otherwise have been unavailable to the ordinary man in the street.