Legal Advisor, Litigation and Dispute Resolution

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Study leave

Professional development

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a skilled Legal Advisor specializing in Litigation and Dispute Resolution to join our client's legal team. This hybrid role combines remote work with in-office collaboration in Port Elizabeth.

You will manage a diverse caseload from inception to resolution, provide expert strategy, and liaise with external counsel. The position requires a SA-admitted attorney with 6+ years in litigation and strong drafting, advocacy, and research skills.

Qualifications

• Admitted attorney with at least 6 years post-qualification experience in litigation.
• Strong track record in managing complex litigation, preferably in insurance/financial services.
• In-depth knowledge of civil procedure, evidence law, and relevant substantive law.
• Excellent advocacy, drafting, and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage civil litigation matters, including drafting pleadings, discovery, and court appearances.
• Advise on strategy and risk assessment for litigious matters.
• Negotiate settlements and engage in mediation/arbitration when appropriate.
• Perform legal research to support case preparation and strategy.

Skills

Litigation

Legal drafting

Legal research

Case management

Negotiation

Civil procedure

Education

Admitted Attorney (High Court SA)

Tools

Legal case management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the insurance sector, is seeking a skilled Legal Advisor specializing in Litigation and Dispute Resolution to join their esteemed legal team in Port Elizabeth . This hybrid position combines the flexibility of remote work with the necessity of in-office collaboration in Port Elizabeth . You will manage a diverse caseload of litigious matters, from inception through to resolution, providing expert legal guidance and strategy. This role is crucial for safeguarding the company's interests and ensuring effective dispute management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and conduct civil litigation matters on behalf of the company, including drafting pleadings, discovery, and appearing in various courts and tribunals.
• Advise on legal strategy and risk assessment for all litigious matters.
• Negotiate settlements and engage in alternative dispute resolution processes, such as mediation and arbitration.
• Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support case preparation.
• Provide legal opinions and guidance on contentious issues to internal stakeholders.
• Identify trends in litigation and recommend preventative measures.
• Liaise with external counsel, experts, and witnesses.
• Ensure compliance with court rules, procedures, and ethical obligations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files and legal records.
• Contribute to the development of litigation policies and best practices.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience in litigation.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex litigation, preferably within the insurance or financial services industry.
• In-depth knowledge of civil procedure, evidence law, and relevant substantive law.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and drafting skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage a significant caseload effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Proficiency in legal research and case management software.
• Must be able to attend the Port Elizabeth office as required for hybrid working arrangements.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and study leave opportunities.
• Professional development and ongoing training programs.
• Significant exposure to high-stakes litigation within the insurance sector.
• Supportive hybrid work environment.