Paralegal

Job description

• Diploma in Paralegal studies or an LLB

• A least 1-2 years of post-qualification relevant experience

• 2 years 

• Ability to work under pressure
• Willingness to work beyond official working times
• Must be compassionate and a good listener
• Ability to work in a team
• Willingness to travel at times

• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Proficiency in one or more indigenous South Africa Language is advantageous

• To be the primary point of contact for all persons seeking legal advice and assistance. Enquiries may be received primarily by telephone and email but may also be made in person.
• This will include:
  • Recording all relevant personal, contact and case information on the organisation’s designated systems;
  • Taking complete statements from clients;
  • Consulting with attorneys in order to provide sound legal advice and appropriate assistance within the organisation’s mandate; and
  • Reporting on your matters that are properly recorded on the organisation’s designated systems.
• To manage the referral of enquiries to the attorneys and to referral organisations where appropriate.
• To manage an up-to-date electronic system of recording, reconciling and tracking all enquiries received and referred.
• To develop and maintain an accessible, up-to-date and user-friendly database of the names and contact details of all relevant stakeholders and the services offered by each
• To prepare and submit detailed weekly, monthly and quarterly reports and board reports on all enquiries received and referred.
• The paralegal must be up-to-date on relevant content regarding cases that SECTION27 is dealing with and training must be provided in this regard.
• Research work will often be required as part of this training in order to keep abreast of current issues and provide full support to attorneys as necessary.
• To assist SECTION27’s legal and research teams with ad hoc legal research and other general legal tasks as well as substantive work when requested.
• To participate in collaborative efforts with the organisation’s stakeholders and partner organisations.

Requirements

• Knowledge of human rights and public interest law will be advantageous.
• Strong administrative and research skills
• Strong writing skills
• Ability to think independently and take initiative
• Good time management and organisation
• Ability to multi-task
• Good communication, interpersonal and listening skills
• Ability to provide sound legal and other advice to general members of the public in writing, in person or over the phone

• Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings, team meetings, as well as other meetings that relate to the work of SECTION27.
• Submit monthly timesheets.