Gatiep grew up in Tafelsig, Mitchell's Plain, in Cape Town. He went to college and law school. After his studies he decided to go back to Mitchell's Plain, because he could be a big man in Tafelsig. There he opened his new law office. The first day, he saw a man coming up the sidewalk and decided to make a big impression. As the man came to the door, Gatiep pretended to be on the phone and motioned the man to take a seat. Gatiep said into the phone: "No, absolutely no. You tell those clowns in New York that I won't settle this case for less than a million. "Yes the Appeals Court has agreed to hear the case next week. "I'll be handling the Primary arguments and the other members of my team will provide support. Okay, give the State Prosecutor my regards and....... The visitor sat patiently as Gatiep rattled instructions. Finally, Gatiep put down the telephone and said: I'm sorry for the delay, but as you can see, I'm very busy. What can I do for you? The man said: "I'm from Telkom. I've come to connect your phone.......