In February 1999 an ISP consulted me on an Internet-related legal problem. The lack of a South African Internet law publication on the shelves of our libraries was glaring... and unnecessary. Many attorneys and other professionals have experienced the same frustration. It was obvious that a South African collection of Internet law was long
overdue. The idea of Cyberlaw@SA was born.

 

I realised that a useful book would be guaranteed if the specialists on the various Internet law topics contributed to one publication. With the helpful guidance of William Marais, I discussed the need for a comprehensive South African Internet law publication with a number of attorneys, CAs and professionals. They all agreed on the urgency of a local publication and indicated their willingness and enthusiasm to produce the first book of its kind in South Africa.

 

The result was that 20 different authors wrote the 15 chapters of this book. I owe them greatly for the pressure under which they completed their brilliant contributions. I'm indebted to the publisher, Van Schaik Publishers and in particular Justa du Plessis Niemand, for her guidance and dedication and Warren Grové for the graphics and cover design. Others who shared their insights and time include Frikkie Kriek, Karin Behm-Joubert, Ernst Schlatter, Marina Pearson and the kind people of Graphicor in Stellenbosch and Johannesburg. Also Leonard and Rosa Buys for their continued support, enthusiasm and love. A mere "thank you" can never convey my true appreciation.

 

Reinhardt Buys

Sonnenberg, Hoffmann & Galombik

rbuys@shg.co.za

Cape Town, January 2000