Hilton Epstein SC began his career at the Johannesburg Bar in 1982. Prior to that, he practised as an attorney for 5 years. The status of senior counsel was conferred on him in 1995.
He has been appointed to act as a Judge of the High Court on several occasions since 1995.
Hilton Epstein established Maisels Chambers 3 in 1996 and was the leader of the Group for 25 years until he stood down in 2023.
Hilton Epstein’s work covers a broad spectrum of law: commercial matters (essentially arising from contractual and delictual claims), company law, constitutional and administrative law and judicial review, including matters relating to tender awards; his practice includes matters concerning the regulation of agricultural products, including the imposition of import duties through the International Trade and Administration Commission. He has appeared on numerous occasions in the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court.
Arbitrations
Founding director of the Arbitration Foundation of South Africa.
Often appointed as an Arbitrator in commercial disputes.
Hilton Epstein has been appointed on numerous occasions as an Arbitrator in terms of the Rules of various sporting bodies, particularly in relation to disputes between sporting clubs, players and administrators.
Contribution as a member of the Johannesburg Bar
Appointed by the Minister of Justice as the General Council of the Bar representative of the Legal Aid Board (1995-1998).
Chairman of the Rules Board for Courts of Law Committee of the General Council of the Bar (1999).
Served as a member of the Johannesburg Bar Council for 15 years.
Served on a number of occasions as Chairman of the Fees Sub-committee and Professional Sub-Committee.
Chairman of the Johannesburg Bar Council on two occasions (2002–2003; 2008-2009).
Member of Advocates for Transformation since its formation