He specialises in commercial matters such as mergers and acquisitions, general structuring and drafting of commercial agreements and advising on B-BBEE compliance issues and assisting clients in rendering their businesses B-BBEE compliant. He also advising on and assists clients in resolving tax issues. Francois obtained the B.Juris and LL.B degrees from the Potchefstroom campus of North West University. After completing his legal studies he also obtained a BA Hons degree in political science from the same University.

He commenced his professional career as a candidate attorney with Ross and Jacobsz Attorneys in Pretoria.

He was admitted as an attorney, notary and conveyancer in 1980 and immediately after his admission joined Van Velden-Duffey in Rustenburg where is still practising.

After he commenced practice, he also obtained a post graduate higher diploma in Tax practice from the former Rand Afrikaans University and a higher diploma in Corporate Law from the University of South Africa.

Francois approaches every instruction with dedication, quality of service, excellence and years of experience. His problem solving mentality ensures that all facets of a matter are scrutinised and carefully considered before a solution is identified and implemented.

Francois is a lover of the outdoors and serves as a Honorary Officer of the North West Parks and Tourism Board. He also has a keen interest in and love for trees, and serves as the secretary of the National Committee of the Dendrological Society of South Africa.