If you are passionate about constitutional law and have a keen interest in making a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s judiciary system, this is your chance to shine. The Office of the Chief Justice has officially opened applications for Law Clerk positions for 2026. These positions provide an incredible platform for legal professionals to work closely with Constitutional Court Justices and gain invaluable experience in research, legal writing, and judicial decision-making.
Law Clerk Job Overview
- Position Title: Law Clerk
- Location: Constitutional Court, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Salary: R444,036 per annum + 37% in lieu of benefits
Law Clerk Job Description
As a Law Clerk at the Constitutional Court, your primary duty will be to conduct legal research and assist a Constitutional Court Justice with their duties. Each Justice is supported by two Law Clerks, making the environment highly collaborative and intellectually stimulating. The role is suitable for those who have a strong foundation in constitutional law and enjoy engaging with complex legal issues.
Appointments for the Law Clerk positions are available for two periods:
- January 2026 to December 2026, or
- July 2026 to June 2027,
depending on the needs of each Justice.
Applicants are encouraged to indicate their preferred period of service in their application.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for these prestigious positions, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Background
- Applicants must possess Matric plus an LLB degree, or
- Be in the final year of study for such a degree. Equivalent or postgraduate qualifications are also considered.
Academic excellence and a demonstrable interest in constitutional law are highly recommended.
Relevant experience in research and legal writing will give candidates an edge.
- Eligibility
- Only South African citizens may apply.
Salary and Benefits
The contractual salary for this position is R444,036 per annum, plus 37% in lieu of benefits. Successful candidates must arrange their own accommodation and transportation.
Important Details for Applicants
- Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified documents before or on the day of the interview.
- Failure to submit all the required documents will result in disqualification.
- The Office of the Chief Justice is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to women and individuals with disabilities.
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Application Requirements
To apply, candidates must prepare a single PDF bundle containing all the following documents in the specified order:
- A completed Z83 application form.
Note: Only the latest Z83 form is accepted. - A cover letter (maximum two pages), indicating your preferred working period and whether you need assistance with travel arrangements for interviews in Johannesburg (if shortlisted).
- A recent and comprehensive CV, including your city of residence in 2025.
- Uncertified copies of qualifications (Matric certificate and academic transcripts/records). Applicants with foreign qualifications must include an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
- A copy of your South African ID.
- Letters of recommendation from two referees, including their contact information (email and phone numbers).
- An example of written work (6-12 pages), demonstrating critical legal analysis. This must be your own work.
How to Apply
The application period is open from 1 January 2025 and closes on 15 March 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Applicants can submit their applications through the following methods:
- Email: Send to applications26@concourt.org.za
- Postal Address:
The Director: Human Resources
Office of the Chief Justice
Private Bag X10, Marshalltown, 2107 - Hand Delivery:
Office of the Chief Justice
Human Resource Management and Development
188, 14th Road, Noordwyk, Midrand, 1685
If you have not received feedback within three months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Read more: The use of the Z83 form and how to properly fill it in
The Law Clerk Job Opportunities at the Office of the Chief Justice offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to work at South Africa’s highest court. Not only will you gain unparalleled experience in constitutional law, but you will also have the opportunity to contribute to shaping the nation’s legal landscape. This role is perfect for ambitious legal professionals or final-year LLB students eager to make their mark in the judiciary.
