Junior Legal Counsel

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Training

Broad legal experience

Career growth

Durban-based role

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Junior Legal Counsel to join its expanding legal team. This office-based role offers hands-on experience across corporate law, commercial contracts, compliance, and litigation support under seasoned mentors.

The position is ideal for a newly qualified or early-career practitioner aiming to build a solid foundation in corporate legal practice within a dynamic industrial setting.

Qualifications

• LLB or equivalent qualification.
• Up to 3 years post-qualification experience in corporate/commercial law.
• Strong research, writing and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in drafting, review, and negotiation of commercial agreements and legal documents.
• Conduct legal research on diverse topics to support ongoing cases and initiatives.
• Provide administrative and logistical support to the legal team, including document management and filing.
• Help manage corporate filings and maintain statutory registers.
• Support the preparation of legal opinions and advice under supervision.
• Assist in the coordination of litigation matters and pre-litigation investigations.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant legislation.
• Liaise with external counsel and other third parties as directed.
• Support the legal team in implementing and maintaining compliance programs.
• Participate in internal meetings and contribute to legal discussions.

Skills

Legal research

Writing

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Microsoft Office

Education

LLB

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent manufacturing firm based in Durban , is actively seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Junior Legal Counsel to join their expanding legal department. This is an office-based role offering invaluable hands‑on experience and direct mentorship from seasoned legal professionals. The successful candidate will gain exposure to a broad spectrum of legal disciplines, including corporate law, commercial contracts, compliance, and litigation support. This position is ideal for a newly qualified or early‑career legal practitioner looking to build a solid foundation in corporate legal practice within a dynamic industrial setting. You will be instrumental in supporting the legal team’s daily operations, contributing to critical projects, and ensuring the company’s legal obligations are met efficiently and effectively. Our client is committed to professional growth and provides a supportive environment for learning and development. This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the legal intricacies of a well‑established manufacturing business in the vibrant Durban economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the drafting, review, and negotiation of various commercial agreements and legal documents.
• Conduct legal research on diverse topics to support ongoing cases and strategic initiatives.
• Provide administrative and logistical support to the legal team, including document management and filing.
• Help manage corporate filings and maintain statutory registers.
• Support the preparation of legal opinions and advice under supervision.
• Assist in the coordination of litigation matters and pre‑litigation investigations.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant legislation.
• Liaise with external counsel and other third parties as directed.
• Support the legal team in implementing and maintaining compliance programs.
• Participate in internal meetings and contribute to legal discussions.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney or Legal Practitioner with a valid Fidelity Fund Certificate.
• Law degree (LLB) or equivalent qualification.
• Up to 3 years of post‑qualification experience in a corporate or commercial law setting.
• Demonstrated interest and foundational knowledge in corporate and commercial law.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic legal software.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Eagerness to learn and develop professionally within the legal field.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban for this office‑based role.

Benefits

• Competitive starting salary and benefits package.
• Mentorship and training from experienced legal professionals.
• Opportunity to gain broad legal experience in a corporate setting.
• Exposure to diverse legal matters within the manufacturing industry.
• Stable employment with a reputable company in Durban .
• Contribution to a dynamic and collaborative legal team.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.