Junior Commercial Litigation Associate

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town is seeking a motivated Junior Commercial Litigation Associate to join our dynamic legal team. You will work with senior litigators on commercial disputes, assist with legal research, draft pleadings, and prepare for court appearances.

This role suits a newly qualified or junior lawyer eager to develop advocacy skills in a supportive environment, with opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and exposure to high-profile cases.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney with Fidelity Fund Certificate.
• Completion of articles of clerkship with exposure to commercial litigation.
• Strong understanding of High Court Rules and civil procedure.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in legal research databases and standard office software.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research on complex litigation matters and prepare detailed memoranda.
• Draft pleadings, applications, affidavits, and other court documents under supervision.
• Assist in the preparation for trials, arbitrations, and ADR proceedings.
• Manage discovery processes, including document review and production.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and court officials as directed.
• Support senior associates and partners in all aspects of litigation case management.

Skills

Legal research

Drafting pleadings

Client communication

Case management

Organizational skills

Education

Articles of clerkship exposure

Tools

Legal databases

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an enthusiastic and diligent Junior Commercial Litigation Associate to join their dynamic legal team based in Cape Town . This role offers a fantastic opportunity for a newly qualified or junior lawyer to gain hands‑on experience in a variety of commercial disputes. You will work closely with senior litigators on complex cases, assisting with legal research, drafting pleadings, and preparing for court appearances. This position is ideal for someone eager to develop their advocacy skills and build a strong foundation in commercial litigation within a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research on complex litigation matters and prepare detailed memoranda.
• Draft pleadings, applications, affidavits, and other court documents under supervision.
• Assist in the preparation for trials, arbitrations, and alternative dispute resolution proceedings.
• Manage discovery processes, including document review and production.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and court officials as directed.
• Support senior associates and partners in all aspects of litigation case management.

Requirements

• Admitted attorney with a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate.
• Completion of articles of clerkship with exposure to commercial litigation .
• Strong understanding of the High Court Rules and civil procedure.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency in legal drafting.
• Proficiency in legal research databases and standard office software.
• A proactive approach, strong organizational skills, and the ability to meet deadlines.

Benefits

• Competitive starting salary and structured progression.
• Exposure to high-profile commercial disputes and diverse legal challenges.
• Mentorship from experienced partners and senior associates.
• Professional development and continuing legal education opportunities.
• Contribution towards medical aid and pension fund.