Commercial Litigation Associate

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Mentorship from experienced lawyers

Professional development opportunities

Exposure to high-profile cases

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Commercial Litigation Associate to join a prestigious firm in Randburg. The role covers diverse, high-stakes disputes from pleadings to trial preparation and enforcement, with opportunities to work on high-profile cases in a dynamic team environment.

Ideal candidates will have SA SA bar admission, 3–5 years of post-admission experience, strong drafting and advocacy skills, and the ability to work under pressure while meeting deadlines.

Qualifications

• LLB degree required.
• Admitted as an Attorney with a valid practicing certificate in SA.
• Approximately 3–5 years post-admission experience in commercial litigation.
• Strong drafting, research, and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of commercial litigation matters.
• Draft pleadings, applications, notices and court documents.
• Conduct legal research and prepare opinions and memoranda.
• Oversee discovery processes and depositions.
• Represent clients in motion court, mediations, and arbitrations.
• Collaborate with partners on case strategy and development.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Legal research

Drafting & writing

Advocacy & negotiation

Time management

Team collaboration

Education

LLB degree

South Africa Attorney admission

Tools

Legal research databases

Case management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious and well-established commercial law firm, is seeking a talented and driven Commercial Litigation Associate to join their esteemed practice in Randburg . This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse range of complex commercial disputes, providing clients with expert legal representation and strategic advice. The successful candidate will be involved in all stages of litigation, from initial case assessment and pleadings to discovery, trial preparation, and enforcement. This is an excellent opportunity for a rising legal star to develop their career within a supportive and dynamic professional environment, gaining exposure to high-profile cases and contributing to the firm's continued success. We are committed to fostering professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of commercial litigation matters, including breach of contract, shareholder disputes, and general commercial claims.
• Draft pleadings, applications, notices, and other court documents.
• Conduct thorough legal research and prepare comprehensive legal opinions and memoranda.
• Manage discovery processes, including document review, interrogatories, and depositions.
• Represent clients in motion court, mediations, arbitrations, and potentially trials.
• Liaise effectively with clients, providing regular updates and strategic advice.
• Collaborate with partners and senior associates on case strategy and development.
• Assist in preparing for and conducting trials and other court proceedings.
• Manage junior legal staff and candidate attorneys involved in litigation matters.
• Ensure compliance with court rules, practice directives, and ethical obligations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree.
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a valid practicing certificate.
• Approximately 3-5 years of post-admission experience in commercial litigation.
• Demonstrated experience in drafting court processes and managing litigation files.
• Strong understanding of South African procedural law and substantive commercial law.
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Effective advocacy and negotiation abilities.
• Proficiency in legal research databases and case management software.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage time efficiently, and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• A keen interest in developing expertise in commercial dispute resolution.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package for an Associate, commensurate with experience and demonstrated ability, plus potential for performance-based bonuses. The firm provides opportunities for professional development, mentorship from experienced practitioners, and exposure to high-quality legal work. This role is based in Randburg , offering access to a vibrant legal community. It is a full-time, permanent position within a respected law firm known for its commitment to excellence and client service. We value our team members.