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

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.

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.

Julia Buswell

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Julia earned her Bachelor of Arts in History and Law with Distinction in 2020 and her LLB (cum laude) in 2022, both from the University of Cape Town.

She served her articles of clerkship at Malcolm Lyons & Brivik Inc. between January 2023 and January 2025 and has since continued her legal journey with the firm as a Professional Assistant.

Driven by a passion for medical malpractice and personal injury litigation, Julia combines strategic thinking with compassionate representation.

Outside the courtroom, Julia finds balance through runs, ocean dips and lively gatherings with friends and family.

Malbone Hlako

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Malbone, preferably known as Melba, holds a National Diploma in Legal Assistance obtained from Tshwane University of Technology in 2017. She started off her professional career working as a Legal Secretary at a boutique law firm, where she gained legal experience. Through her eagerness to learn, Melba won the Culture Ambassador Award and Nail-Breaker Award as the best Legal Secretary. She has gained interest in pursuing her law career by studying a Bachelor of Laws part-time with the University of South Africa which she obtained in 2021. Melba joined the MLB family in January 2023 as a Candidate Legal Practitioner, assisting with Personal Injury Claims, Medical Negligence, Labour and RAF Claims and and looks forward to a brighter future.

In her final year at the University of Johannesburg she was a legal consultant at the Wits Law Clinic working closely with the refugee unit. She was also a legal intern in 2019 at Cheandle Thompson and Haysom Attorneys where she was introduced to Labour law. Millicent was a researcher at the Constitutional Hill Trust under the leadership of former constitutional court Judge Albie Sachs. She has since joined Malcolm Lyons and Brivik Inc. as a Candidate Attorney and looks forward to a brighter future.

Amy Kassel

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Amy, a determined candidate attorney, obtained her Bachelor of Commerce in Law in 2020 and her Bachelor of Laws in 2023, from the University of Cape Town. Throughout her academic journey, she has developed a strong foundation in both legal principles, which has equipping her with core skills needed to navigate the complexities of the legal field. Driven by a profound passion for justice, Amy joined the team in 2023, bringing with her a deep commitment to advocating for those who have suffered due to personal injury and medical malpractice.

With a compassionate approach to client care, Amy is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients. She thrives in challenging environments, always striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of whom the firm represents. Beyond her legal pursuits, Amy enjoys reading, exploring Cape Town and time spent with family and friends.

Kayley Mac Taish

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Kayley obtained her LLB degree from the University of the Western Cape in 2023 and has since pursued her passion for litigation. With a keen interest in medical law, she has also completed a specialized course in the field, equipping her with the skills to navigate complex legal matters.

Known for her dedication, efficiency, and approachable demeanor, Kayley excels at building strong client relationships while tackling challenges head-on. Her “mind over matter” philosophy drives her to consistently push boundaries, whether in the courtroom or in her personal pursuits.

Outside of her legal practice, Kayley is an avid runner and cyclist, frequently participating in half-marathons and cycling events. These activities reflect her disciplined and goal-oriented mindset, qualities she brings to every case she handles.

Kayla Beyer

CANDIDATE ATTORNEY

Kayla obtained her LLB degree in 2024 from the University of Pretoria. She made the 2021 First Year LLB Dean’s Merit List in her first year.

She also successfully completed her degree while simultaneously working part-time as a data generator. Additionally she also has a background in education working as an educator’s assistant.

Indio Friedman

ARTICLES OF CLERKSHIP

Indio completed her LLB degree in 2022 at Stellenbosch University and went on to obtain her LLM specialising in Human Rights Law in 2023 – 2024 from the University of Cape Town. She joined Malcolm Lyons & Brivik at the start of 2024 to commence her articles of clerkship. Throughout this period, Indio has pursued avenues in journalism with a focus on social justice and commentary and NGO work in the sphere of children’s rights. Compassion and commitment stands tall in the way she conducts herself. A tenacious spirit with a critical mindset, she unravels complex disputes with vigour and curiosity. She aims to continue in her legal journey towards justice-based outcomes following her articles. Beyond her legal pursuits, Indio finds joy in yoga, writing, unintended creative projects and being in nature.

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.

Aviwe Lwana

LEGAL SECRETARY

Aviwe is an integral part of Malcolm Lyons and Brivik Attorneys. She is a legal secretary working directly under Mr Brivik. Aviwe applies her specialised knowledge of legal terminology and procedures in providing support to MLB’s lawyers. Aviwe successfully manages internal co-ordination activities across MLB’s law offices. Aviwe enjoys her spare time in the company of family and friends.

Thapelo Motsoage

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.

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.