In-House Litigation Counsel

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an In-House Litigation Counsel for a South Africa-based financial services client in Welkom. The role covers all stages of commercial litigation, with collaboration across business units and a focus on minimizing costs and risks.

The ideal candidate is an admitted SA attorney with 7+ years of private practice or in-house experience, strong research and advocacy skills, and comfort with legal technology. Hybrid work arrangement offered.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in commercial litigation.
• Experience managing complex litigation including discovery and trial prep.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of commercial litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Develop litigation strategies, conduct legal research, and draft pleadings and motions.
• Represent the company in court proceedings, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Conduct discovery, including document review and expert witness prep.
• Advise business units on litigation risks and dispute resolution.
• Negotiate settlements and manage external counsel.
• Ensure compliance with court rules and procedures.
• Assist in litigation prevention strategy development.

Skills

Research skills

Written advocacy

Oral advocacy

Negotiation skills

Issue analysis

Education

South Africa High Court admission

Tools

Legal technology

E-discovery tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding financial services institution, is seeking a dedicated and skilled In-House Litigation Counsel to join their legal department in Welkom, Free State . This role is integral to managing and resolving a diverse portfolio of disputes, ensuring the company's legal interests are vigorously protected. The successful candidate will handle all stages of litigation, from initial assessment and strategy development to trial and post-judgment proceedings. You will work collaboratively with various business units, providing strategic legal advice to minimize litigation risks and costs. This is an excellent opportunity for a lawyer with a strong background in commercial litigation to make a significant impact within a supportive and forward-thinking organization, operating on a hybrid work model. We are looking for an individual who is results-driven, possesses exceptional analytical skills, and thrives in a fast-paced legal environment. Join us in Welkom and contribute to our continued success and legal integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of commercial litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Develop litigation strategies, conduct legal research, and draft pleadings, motions, and other court documents.
• Represent the company in court proceedings, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Conduct discovery, including document review, depositions, and expert witness preparation.
• Advise business units on potential litigation risks and provide guidance on dispute resolution.
• Negotiate settlements and resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Manage external counsel engaged in litigation matters.
• Ensure compliance with court rules and procedures.
• Assist in the development and implementation of litigation prevention strategies.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in commercial litigation, either in private practice or in-house.
• Proven experience in managing complex litigation matters, including discovery and trial preparation.
• Strong understanding of civil procedure and evidence law.
• Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to analyze complex factual and legal issues and develop practical solutions.
• Strong negotiation and settlement skills.
• Must be proficient in working with legal technology and e-discovery tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Familiarity with the financial services industry is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Generous paid time off and leave policies.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education.
• Access to modern legal resources and technology.
• A stimulating work environment in Welkom with a balanced hybrid work arrangement.