GEORGE NEWS - For Evadne Kortje, a senior state advocate with nearly three decades of prosecutorial experience, the law finds its deepest meaning not in procedure or public scrutiny, but in standing firm for victims, giving voice to the defenceless, and helping families begin to heal.

Rooted in a strong Catholic faith and guided by an unshakeable belief in fairness and human dignity, Kortje has built her career on the principle that justice is not abstract. It is personal. 

It lives in every case she prosecutes, in every family waiting for answers, and in every moment where the truth, painstakingly assembled from fragments of evidence, finally comes to light.

“I believe in equality and fairness. I strive to live accordingly. I also believe in self-worth. We only get one life and as an individual, I must be the best version of myself that I can be.”

Growing up in George as the youngest of four siblings and with both her parents working as educators at St Mary’s Primary School, Kortje quickly learned to stand firm and create her own identity. 

“My parents were dedicated, hardworking, devout Catholics with tremendous contributions to the Rosemoor community,” she says.

Kortje says she realised she wanted to work in law from a very young age. 

“I think it was when my parents would enquire who was responsible for breaking something in the house, and with four children, there can only be so many suspects. I had no difficulty in being blamed just to ensure that the enquiry stopped. My parents were generous in administering equal punishment, even to the innocent. Oh, and I was a big fan of L.A. Law!”

Those early lessons would later shape her approach in court, where clarity, conviction and preparation are non-negotiable.

A self-described studious learner, following in the footsteps of her siblings, Kortje attended Pacaltsdorp Secondary School after completing her primary school career. While her path into law was not sparked by early exposure to the justice system, her natural inclination to stand up, speak out and seek fairness was already evident.

It was during her final years studying law at Stellenbosch University that she decided to become a prosecutor. 

To her it offered something more meaningful than a private practice. “I discovered that I am inclined to help people. I would say the prosecution chose me.”

Early years at the NPA

In Grade 11, Kortje was one of three learners selected from public schools to attend the Adventure Citizenship Programme in Cape Town. It was during this time that she visited the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court for the first time.

After completing her studies, Kortje was introduced to Senior Public Prosecutor Muller Redelinghuys in George, where her career as a prosecutor took flight. 

“I was guided by experienced public prosecutors, who showed me the ropes. It was daunting at first, but eventually I got the hang of it. My prosecutorial basis was laid by experienced colleagues and magistrates, who I still hold as my mentors.”

That discipline has carried her through countless cases, including high-profile trials under intense public scrutiny. Yet for Kortje, the real work of prosecution often lies away from the spotlight. 

“I prefer when there is little public interest,” she admits. “That is when you are really allowed to practise the law.”

Emotional toll

However, even after years in the courtroom, the emotional toll is real. After particularly heavy trials, especially those involving gender-based violence, Kortje allows herself time to step back, reflect and recharge.

Outside of court, Kortje is a passionate public speaker and a member of Toastmasters International, always refining her communication and leadership skills. But she says it is her family, friends and faith community that keep her grounded.

Looking back, she speaks with gratitude about the path that found her. “I have the privilege to serve my community,” she says. 

“To bring hope to victims and their families who have lost faith.”

For young people in George who dream of a career in law, her message is simple: stay the course. “If it is your passion, hold on to it. Be ready to work hard and contribute to society. Preparation is key,” she says. 

“You must know everything about your case. The court, your opponent and the public will know when you are unprepared.”

While the weight of the work has at times led her to question her path, Kortje says the support of her colleagues and family has been instrumental.

She credits Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv Nicolette Bell, along with her family, managing team and colleagues for shaping her career and providing the guidance and opportunities that have defined her journey.

“A prosecution’s case depends on the credibility and reliability of evidence. The fight is not ours alone. We need brave citizens to come forward with the knowledge of crimes and be courageous enough to testify against offenders. Co-operation with law enforcement is imperative.

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