Join the Supreme Court of Appeal as a Law Researcher

Ref No: 2024/33/OCJ 

(3-Year Contract)

Salary: R444,036 – R532,602 per annum (Level 09) + 37% in lieu of benefits

Location: Supreme Court of Appeal, Bloemfontein

The Office of the Chief Justice is currently seeking a qualified and experienced Law Researcher to join the team at the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein. This critical role is offered on a three-year contract basis, featuring a competitive salary augmented by a 37% lieu of benefits, reflecting the demanding and integral nature of the position.

Educational and Professional Requirements:

  • Matric certificate and an LLB degree or a comparable four-year legal qualification.
  • A minimum of two (2) years relevant legal experience.
  • At least three (3) years of legal research experience.
  • Proficiency in using domestic and international legal databases.
  • An LLM degree will be considered an added advantage.
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license will be beneficial.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Exceptional research and analytical abilities.
  • Advanced report writing and editing skills.
  • Proficient in both written and verbal communication.
  • Deep understanding of the Constitution and pertinent legislation.
  • Computer literacy, particularly in MS Office and legal research software such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Jutastat.
  • Strong planning and organizational skills.
  • Capability to synthesize information from various sources.
  • Meticulous attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and under pressure.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct comprehensive legal research to aid judges in preparing judgments.
  • Retrieve and analyze relevant materials from a variety of sources, both physical and electronic.
  • Draft detailed memoranda based on research findings.
  • Proofread judgments, articles, speeches, and conference papers, ensuring accuracy of references and footnotes.
  • Draft speeches, conference notes, and legal articles.
  • Keep judges informed of recent developments in case law and jurisprudence.
  • Perform additional duties as required by the court.

Selection Process: All shortlisted candidates will undergo a pre-entry practical exercise to assess their suitability for the position based on the post’s technical and generic requirements.

For Technical Related Enquiries: Contact Ms. C.A Martin at (051) 492 4623

For HR Related Enquiries: Contact Ms. N de la Rey at (051) 492 4523

The Organisation is dedicated to advancing employment equity and strongly encourages applications from suitably qualified members of underrepresented groups.

If you possess the requisite qualifications and experience and are seeking a challenging role that contributes significantly to the justice system, consider applying for the position of Law Researcher at the Supreme Court of Appeal.

For more information and other vacancies within the judiciary sector, visit www.judiciary.co.za. 

Closing date 17 May 2024