Graduate Legal Assistant

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Entry-level salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development

Mentorship from attorneys/paralegals

Exposure to diverse legal practices

Career advancement

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is hiring a Graduate Legal Assistant for our Paarl, Western Cape office. You will support attorneys with case preparation, draft documents, perform legal research and manage files in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate has an LLB or related degree, strong research and communication skills, and the desire to learn from experienced professionals. This entry-level role offers professional development and exposure to diverse areas of law.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB) or related field.
• Strong understanding of legal terminology, procedures and principles.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in LexisNexis, Westlaw and MS Office.
• Organized with strong time management.
• Strong written and verbal communication; high integrity.
• Able to work independently and in a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Willing to learn in a professional firm setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with case preparation, drafting documents and pleadings.
• Conduct legal research using online databases.
• Organize and manage case files and documentation.
• Schedule client meetings, court dates, and appointments.
• Communicate with clients, court personnel, and legal professionals.
• Handle administrative duties: filing, scanning, data entry.
• Prepare briefs, memos, and other documents.
• Ensure compliance with legal procedures and firm policies.

Skills

Legal terminology

Research skills

Office suite

Time management

Communication

Teamwork/independence

Education

LLB or related

Legal Studies degree

Tools

LexisNexis

Westlaw

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established and reputable law firm in Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking a dedicated and diligent Graduate Legal Assistant. This is an excellent entry-level position for a recent graduate looking to build a career in the legal sector. You will provide crucial administrative and paralegal support to a team of experienced attorneys, assisting with case management, document preparation, client communication, and legal research. The role is based at our firm's offices in Paarl, Western Cape , offering a supportive and professional work environment. The ideal candidate is highly organized, possesses exceptional attention to detail, and has a strong understanding of legal procedures. You will gain exposure to various areas of law and develop essential skills under the guidance of seasoned legal professionals. This position is vital for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our legal services.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with case preparation, including drafting legal documents, pleadings, and correspondence.
• Conduct legal research using online databases and other resources.
• Organize and manage case files, ensuring all documentation is up-to-date and accessible.
• Schedule client meetings, court dates, and other legal appointments.
• Communicate with clients, court personnel, and other legal professionals.
• Handle general administrative duties, such as filing, scanning, and data entry.
• Prepare briefs, memos, and other legal documents for review.
• Ensure compliance with all legal procedures and firm policies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB), Legal Studies, or a related field.
• A strong understanding of legal terminology, procedures, and principles.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in legal research databases (e.g., LexisNexis, Westlaw) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn.

Benefits

• Competitive entry-level salary.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education.
• Mentorship from experienced attorneys and paralegals.
• Exposure to diverse legal practices and challenging cases.
• A professional and supportive work environment in Paarl, Western Cape .
• Clear path for career advancement within the firm.
• Paid annual leave.