Joel Goodman Joffe, Baron Joffe, CBE, is a prominent South African-born British barrister and Labour Party peer in the House of Lords.
He is recognized for his work as a human rights lawyer, notably as defence counsel for the ANC leadership at the Rivonia Trial, including representing Nelson Mandela and co-defendants.
With a strong commitment to justice and equality, Joffe left a lasting impact on the legal landscape and the fight for the rights of the disadvantaged.
File
- Full Name: Joel Goodman Joffe, Baron Joffe
- Date of birth: May 12, 1932
- Age: 91 years old (as of 2023)
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Johannesburg, Transvaal, South Africa
- Nationality: South African, British
- Occupation: Lawyer, Colleague
- Parents: Father N/A
- Siblings: None
- Spouse: Vanetta Pretorius
- Children: 3
- Relationship status: Married
- Net worth: $3 million
Early life and education
Joel Joffe (age 91 as of 2023) was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 12, 1932. He grew up in a Jewish family.
His father was Lithuanian, and his mother was born in the Mandate of Palestine.
Joffe’s upbringing gave him a unique cultural and religious background. He attended a Catholic boarding school despite his Jewish background.
Personal life
In 1962, Joel Joffe married Vanetta Pretorius, an artist. Together they embarked on a new chapter in their lives, moving to the UK in 1965 after being refused entry to Australia.
Their marriage resulted in the birth of three children, and Joffe’s personal life was marked by devotion to family and the pursuit of justice.
Career
Joel Joffe’s illustrious career spans many fields, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to making a positive impact.
He began his professional journey as a human rights lawyer from 1958 to 1965. Notably, he played a key role as a defence lawyer in the historic Rivonia Trial, working alongside famous figures such as Nelson Mandela.
After moving to the UK, Joffe ventured into the financial services industry and co-founded Hambro Life Assurance with Sir Mark Weinberg.
He also contributed to the voluntary sector as chairman of the Swindon and Marlborough Health Authority and Ridgeway Hospital.
He was associated with Oxfam from 1982 to 2001, during which time he held various positions, including President from 1995 to 2001.
Joffe’s dedication to charity was not limited to his work at Oxfam, but he was also actively involved in charitable activities through the Joffe Charitable Foundation, which he founded with his wife in 1968.
Net worth
Joel Joffe’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated at $3 million.
Through his diverse career and dedication to philanthropy, he has amassed a substantial fortune, reflecting his achievements and contributions to society.
Death
Joel Joffe died on June 18, 2017, at the age of 85, after a short illness.
His legacy as a human rights activist and his commitment to justice continues to inspire many others.
Social media
- Instagram: None
- Twitter: None
