Smo 16933 - Senior Associate – Litigation : Law Firm – East Rand And Johannesburg North

Professional Career Services; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable law firm in Johannesburg seeks a seasoned litigation attorney. The role involves managing cases for municipalities and state entities, drafting legal documents, and representing clients in court. Essential qualifications include an LLB degree and 6-8 years of post-qualification experience. Ideal candidates will have strong litigation and drafting skills, as well as experience in the High Court and magistrates' courts.

Qualifications

• Must have 6 to 8 years post-qualification experience.
• Proven litigation skills at magistrates and High Court.
• Ability to draft legal documents independently.

Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload for public entities.
• Draft and review legal documents unassisted.
• Appear in court for motions and trials.

Skills

Litigation skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Familiarity with High Court Rules

Strong drafting skills

Good character

Education

LLB Degree

Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Right of appearance in the High Court of South Africa

6 to 8 years post-qualification experience (PQE)

Tools

Caselines

Court Online

Job description

Employer Description

An established law firm with offices in the East Rand and the northern suburbs of Johannesburg.

Job Description

Our client has two vacancies for a seasoned and experienced litigation attorney at their offices in the East Rand and northern Johannesburg. The successful candidate will primarily undertake work for municipalities and state-owned companies; experience servicing these types of entities will be a significant advantage.

Responsibilities

• Managing a diverse caseload involving civil, administrative and regulatory litigation for public entities.
• Drafting, reviewing, and finalising legal documents, including pleadings, motions, affidavits, discovery requests, and settlement agreements.
• Conducting thorough legal research on statutes, regulations, case law and policies relevant to municipal and state-owned entity litigation.
• Appearing regularly in court, including the High Court and Magistrates Court, for opposed motions, trials, and procedural hearings.
• Ensuring compliance with procedural rules, filing deadlines and ethical / legal standards.
• Providing expert legal advice to municipalities and state-owned companies on litigation strategy, risk mitigation and dispute resolution.
• Interpreting legislation, public procurement laws, administrative law and constitutional matters affecting public entities.
• Advising clients on governance, regulatory compliance, contracts, service delivery disputes and enforcement actions.
• Utilising electronic case management systems such as Caselines and Court Online for filings and document management.
• Drafting legal opinions, pleadings and correspondence independently, without the need for counsel input.
• Maintain detailed case files, billing records and manage administrative tasks as per firm and client requirements.
• Mentor and support junior attorneys and legal staff, fostering professional development.
• Liaise effectively with clients to provide updates, strategic recommendations and manage expectations.
• Demonstrate a strong presence in court, possessing the right of appearance at the High Court and consistent experience in opposed matters.
• Maintain a professional demeanour, uphold good character and build positive relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Stay updated on legal developments affecting municipalities and state-owned companies to provide informed advice.

Qualifications

• LLB Degree
• Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa
• Right of appearance in the High Court of South Africa
• 6 to 8 years post-qualification experience (PQE)

Skills

• 6 to 8 years post-qualification experience.
• Proven litigation skills, particularly at both magistrates courts and the High Court.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with the High Court Rules, Caselines, and Court Online.
• Right of appearance at the High Court is essential, with experience appearing at the High Court or consistent attendance at magistrates courts for opposed matters.
• Strong drafting skills for all pleadings, as well as research and opinion drafting without the need for counsel.
• Good character and the ability to maintain positive relationships with clients and the team.

Additional Information

Preference will be given to EE candidates, although all suitable applicants will be considered. The position is open to both female and male candidates.