Legal Aid South Africa, a key pillar of our nation’s constitutional democracy, invites qualified candidates to apply for the position of High Court Unit Secretary at the Cape Town Local Office. This opportunity, advertised both internally and externally, offers a permanent appointment with a credible employer recognized as a Top Employer in South Africa for 15 consecutive years.
If you are committed to service excellence and possess the necessary skills and experience, this role may be the perfect fit for you.
Key Responsibilities
As a High Court Unit Secretary, your primary role will be to provide comprehensive administrative and secretarial support to the High Court Unit, ensuring smooth operations in line with Legal Aid SA’s policies, procedures, and standards. The following are your key outputs:
- Administrative Support: Efficiently manage all administrative functions related to the High Court Unit, including handling documents, coordinating communication, and ensuring that the office runs smoothly.
- Secretarial Duties: Provide top-notch secretarial support, such as typing, proofreading, making copies, and distributing documents as instructed. You will also be responsible for maintaining a reliable filing and diary system to support High Court practitioners.
- Liaison and Coordination: Develop systems to acknowledge and distribute documents received from various stakeholders, including Correctional Centres, legal practitioners, and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). You will also gather necessary information for consultative interviews and assist in the preparation and presentation of cases.
- Records Management: Maintain accurate records and ensure that reports and documentation are delivered on time to the relevant individuals. This includes managing attendance registers, mail items, court documents, and physical assets.
- Support for Legal Practitioners: Assist legal practitioners with ancillary matters, including managing Judicare files and instructions, updating webpages related to the High Court Unit, and processing Judicare accounts for payment. Additionally, you will help with travel and accommodation arrangements for practitioners attending Circuit Courts.
- General Office Duties: Perform tasks such as photocopying, binding documents, maintaining stationery supplies, and handling telephone communications with proper etiquette.
Required Competencies
To succeed in this role, you must meet the following qualifications and demonstrate the associated competencies:
- Educational Background: A National Senior/Matric certificate coupled with a Secretarial Diploma is mandatory.
- Experience: At least three years of practical secretarial experience within a complex organization, preferably within a legal practice. Proficiency in MS Office programs is essential.
- Skills: Strong project management skills, excellent analytical and organizational abilities, business acumen, and the capability to manage demanding deadlines and projects. You should also possess consulting skills, a collaborative style, and a high level of service excellence.
- Technical Proficiency: Functional ability in using electronic secretarial systems and technologies, as well as a good understanding of the operations of the Local Division of the High Court.
- Interpersonal Skills: The ability to effectively liaise with Judicare practitioners, High Court personnel, and other stakeholders, ensuring smooth communication and query resolution.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary at Level 5, with an annual package of R211,737.00 plus benefits.
How to Apply
If you meet the above requirements and are passionate about contributing to South Africa’s legal system, please submit a detailed curriculum vitae reflecting your practical application of the position outputs and required competencies. Applications must be submitted by close of business on 27 August 2024, quoting the reference number CPT/HCU-SEC/08/08/2024 in the subject line to WCNCRecruit@legal-aid.co.za or apply online at www.legal-aid.co.za.
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For inquiries, you can contact Thembakazi Sobetwa at Tel: 021 426 4126.
Employment Equity
Legal Aid SA is committed to promoting equity (race, gender, and disability) through the filling of this post in line with our Employment Equity Plan. We reserve the right not to make an appointment if it serves the best interest of the organization. Applicants not contacted within two months may consider their application unsuccessful.
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The role of High Court Unit Secretary at Legal Aid South Africa’s Cape Town Local Office is a significant opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the legal field. As a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to justice and equality, Legal Aid SA offers a platform where your skills in administration, organization, and legal support can truly make a difference. This position is not just a job but a chance to contribute to the protection of the rights of indigent and vulnerable South Africans.
