Embark on a transformative journey with the prestigious internship at the Office of the Chief Justice. This opportunity not only allows you to delve into the heart of South Africa’s judicial system but also to work closely with the judiciary, playing a pivotal role in upholding justice and equality. This internship is a beacon for aspiring law researchers, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the legal mechanisms that safeguard our society’s foundational principles.
About the Office of the Chief Justice
The Office of the Chief Justice stands as a cornerstone of the South African judicial system, embodying the nation’s commitment to justice, equality, and transparency. This esteemed institution oversees the judicial functions across the country, ensuring that the rule of law is maintained and that justice is delivered impartially and without prejudice. Through its dedication to fostering a fair and equitable society, the Office of the Chief Justice not only upholds the highest standards of legal excellence but also nurtures the next generation of legal professionals committed to these principles.
Vacancy Overview
- Company: Office of the Chief Justice
- Location: Durban High Court
- Closing Date: 23 February 2024
- Salary: R424,104 – R496,467 per annum (Level 09)
Minimum Requirements
- Matric Certificate and an LLB degree or a four-year recognized legal qualification. An LLM will be an added advantage.
- A minimum of two (2) years relevant legal experience.
- Sound knowledge of domestic and international legal databases.
- A valid driver’s license.
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent research and analytical skills.
- Report writing and editing skills.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
- Computer literacy (MS Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Internet Browser).
- Ability to access and utilize computer research programmes (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Jutastat, Sabinet).
- Planning and organizing skills.
- Ability to integrate knowledge from diverse sources.
- Accuracy and attention to detail.
- Interpersonal skills.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work independently.
Duties
- Assist judges in preparing judgments by conducting research and proofreading drafts.
- Research and retrieve materials on legal issues from both hard copy and electronic sources as requested by judges.
- Read and thoroughly analyze relevant materials.
- Discuss all possible variations on a legal point with colleagues and/or the judge.
- Prepare comprehensive memoranda on the outcome of research.
- Proofread and edit judgments, articles, speeches, and conference papers.
- Verify all references and footnotes in judgments and legal articles against original texts for correctness.
- Use track changes for corrections in judgments and documents to allow for the acceptance or rejection of proposed changes.
- Draft speeches, conference notes, and legal articles.
- Monitor and highlight recent developments in case law and jurisprudence to judges.
- Assist court personnel with research-related queries.
- Attend to additional duties as assigned, supporting the judicial process and contributing to the efficient operation of the court.
Applications
When applying, ensure to quote the relevant reference number. Applications can be submitted via hand delivery at:
- Office of the Chief Justice, Human Resource Management, 1st Floor, CNR Somtseu & Stalwart Simelane Streets, Durban, 4000
Required Documents:
- Comprehensive CV,
- New Z83 form
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the duration of the internship?
A: The internship duration varies; specific details will be provided upon selection.
Q: Can international students apply?
A: The eligibility criteria specify the need for a valid driver’s license and legal qualifications recognized in South Africa, which may affect the applicability for international students.
Q: What should I expect during the internship?
A: Expect to engage in legal research, draft documents, and gain exposure to the judicial decision-making process.
Be Prepared: Common Interview Questions and Winning Reponses
This vacancy with the Office of the Chief Justice at the Durban High Court offers a remarkable opportunity for aspiring law researchers to immerse themselves in the judiciary system of South Africa. With a focus on developing professional skills through hands-on experience in legal research, drafting, and analysis, this position is designed to elevate your legal career to the next level. Remember, the application deadline is 23 February 2024, and we look forward to welcoming dedicated individuals to our team.