The Road Accident Fund (RAF), a key public institution in South Africa, is currently inviting applications for the role of Legal Secretary (High Court) based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This permanent position within the Governance Division offers a vital opportunity for skilled professionals to contribute to the RAF’s mission of compensating and rehabilitating individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents.
About the Road Accident Fund
The RAF plays a crucial role in South Africa’s legal and social landscape by providing compensation to victims of road accidents. Its core mission includes not only rehabilitation and timely compensation but also the promotion of safer road use across the country. Through its dedicated Legal Services Department, the RAF ensures that claims are processed and defended properly, which underscores the need for a competent Legal Secretary to support legal proceedings efficiently.
Role Overview and Purpose
The Legal Secretary (High Court) acts as the administrative backbone of the Legal Services Department. This role is responsible for providing comprehensive secretarial and administrative support to attorneys working on high court cases. It ensures that the department functions smoothly on a daily basis and that all legal documentation and processes are handled with accuracy and confidentiality.
Key Responsibilities of the Legal Secretary
Legal Secretarial Administration
One of the primary duties is the preparation of court statements and legal forms required for high court cases. The Legal Secretary transcribes dictated audio files from attorneys and proofreads all legal documents to guarantee their accuracy before submission.
They also maintain and update pleadings and discovery binders, ensuring that all case files are organized and readily accessible for attorneys during court proceedings. This includes collecting and delivering important documents as well as supporting legal research activities.
Communication is a significant part of the job. The Legal Secretary liaises with vendors, experts, attorneys, opposing counsel, and other staff members to ensure that all information and documents flow seamlessly between parties involved in legal cases.
Standards and Process Management
The Legal Secretary ensures compliance with RAF’s internal standards and procedures. This involves maintaining an updated strategy framework aligned with organizational policies and assisting the strategy and reporting office with administrative tasks. Keeping documentation and policies up to date is vital for quality assurance and operational consistency.
Office and Meeting Management
Managing office administration efficiently is another critical function. The Legal Secretary handles correspondence, filing, telephonic queries, and general office support while maintaining confidentiality in all matters related to legal cases.
The role also includes managing diaries and scheduling meetings for the Legal Services Department. The Legal Secretary arranges appointments with internal and external stakeholders, takes minutes during meetings, and distributes them according to governance standards. They follow up on meeting resolutions and ensure that all outstanding matters are addressed promptly.
Document Control and Court Roll Management
A crucial responsibility is maintaining the filing system to keep it functional and current. The Legal Secretary collates court rolls received from registrars, updates references, and distributes documents to state attorneys as needed.
They also maintain databases of court directives and track the status of high-value foreign national records, which are important for re-insurance purposes. Proper document control ensures that confidential information is protected and that legal processes proceed without delay.
Qualifications and Experience Required
Applicants for this position must have a National Diploma in Business Administration or a law-related qualification. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience in business or legal administration.
Employment Package and Equity Considerations
The Road Accident Fund offers a competitive Total Employment Cost package of R326,151 per annum. Successful candidates can structure their packages to meet individual needs. RAF is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from people with disabilities.
All prospective employees will undergo security vetting, and candidates with foreign qualifications must provide proof of SAQA evaluation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications before the closing date of 3 June 2025. If no response is received within six weeks after the closing date, applicants may consider their applications unsuccessful.
This Legal Secretary role at the Road Accident Fund offers an excellent opportunity to work within a respected institution committed to social justice and road safety. It promises a professional environment in Durban where the successful candidate will play an important role in supporting legal processes that protect and compensate victims of road accidents across South Africa.
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