Legal Counsel

Talentcru; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in banking seeks a talented Legal Counsel to provide effective support to their Senior Litigation Manager and Legal Department. The role involves managing litigation processes, coordinating with attorneys, and providing legal advice across business units. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience in banking law and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of post-articles experience.
• Experience in a banking environment.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate transition of non-performing accounts to the legal division.
• Attend trial preparation and court appearances on behalf of the company.
• Negotiate payment arrangements and settlements with debtors.

Skills

Communication

Understanding of debtors' accounts

Legal knowledge

Education

Admitted Attorney

Job description

Legal Counsel to Support Our Banking Client

We are searching for a talented Legal Counsel to join our client in the exciting world of banking.

You'll play a vital role by providing effective support to the Senior Litigation Manager and the broader Legal Department.

Responsibilities

1. Coordinate transition of non-performing accounts to the legal division.
2. Understand different business structures within the Group and how to litigate accordingly.
3. Create and enhance the processes required for this purpose and have the ability to learn and work on numerous systems.
4. Manage handover and litigation processes.
5. Coordinate perfection of securities, including taking physical possession of assets and managing the disposal of assets.
6. Attend trial preparation and court appearances on behalf of the company.
7. Negotiate payment arrangements and settlements with debtors.
8. Assist and upskill the collections department and business to ensure maximum effectiveness and outcomes.
9. Manage a panel of attorneys, providing training and support.
10. Handle legal accounts on defended and undefended cases to maximize recovery in the shortest timeframe.
11. Manage a team of coordinators and attorneys, promoting productivity and upskilling.
12. Monitor insolvencies, liquidations, sequestrations, business rescue, and related processes.
13. Submit claims, sign affidavits, monitor dividends, and review liquidation and distribution accounts.
14. Explore recovery avenues to maximize benefit to the Bank.
15. Manage costs related to collections and coordinate impairment reports and other required reports.
16. Recommend write-offs after exhausting recovery options.
17. Promote team effectiveness through open discussion and establishing clear goals and procedures.
18. Manage meetings and provide legal opinions and drafting support across the business.
19. Assist business units in negotiating deals and contracts, including Asset Finance and Business Banking.
20. Prioritize needs and manage expectations effectively.
21. Provide legal advice to credit and business units.
22. Analyze large volumes of agreements ensuring prompt turnaround times.

Profile

• Admitted Attorney with 7+ years of post-articles experience.
• Experience in a banking environment.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.
• Strong understanding of debtors' accounts.
• Knowledge of legal processes, insolvencies, and debt collection Acts, including security documents, cession, pledge, and notarial rights.
• Understanding of magistrates' and high court procedures.
• Knowledge of security agreements.