In-House Counsel - Litigation Focus

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Professional development

Durban market exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking an experienced In-House Counsel with a litigation focus to join our growing legal team.

You will manage civil litigation, arbitration and ADR, develop strategies with senior management, draft pleadings and represent the company in mediations when needed. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 6 years of substantial litigation experience and in-house exposure is preferred.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney with substantive litigation experience.
• Experience handling civil litigation, arbitration and ADR.
• Strong negotiation and advocacy skills required.

Responsibilities

• Manage civil litigation, arbitration and ADR proceedings.
• Develop litigation strategies with senior management and external teams.
• Draft pleadings, motions and court documents with accuracy.

Skills

Litigation

Legal research

Negotiation

Strategic thinking

Communication

Independent work

Education

Admitted Attorney

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a proactive and experienced In-House Counsel with a strong focus on litigation to join their growing legal team in Durban . This role is critical in managing and resolving a diverse range of legal disputes, protecting the company's interests, and minimizing legal exposure. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of litigation, from initial assessment and strategy development to trial preparation and settlement negotiations. The successful candidate will work closely with internal business units and external counsel to achieve optimal outcomes, contributing to the company's robust legal defense strategy in the dynamic Durban market. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path for a litigator passionate about corporate law.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all aspects of civil litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution proceedings.
• Develop and implement effective litigation strategies in collaboration with senior management and external legal teams.
• Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, and other court documents.
• Represent the company in mediations, arbitrations, and settlement conferences as required.
• Advise business units on potential litigation risks and strategies for risk mitigation.
• Monitor legal developments and case law relevant to the company's industry and operations.

Requirements

• Admitted attorney with a minimum of 6 years of substantial litigation experience.
• Proven track record in managing complex commercial litigation cases from inception to resolution.
• In-depth knowledge of South African civil procedure and evidence law.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a significant caseload effectively.
• Experience within an in-house legal department or a strong desire to transition from private practice to Durban corporate legal work.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education.
• Exposure to a wide array of challenging litigation matters.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment within the vibrant legal community of Durban .