This role entails a range of contentious, general advisory and transactional litigation work. The incumbent will be expected to work with a lead director and independently, and with clients, counsel, correspondent attorneys and other teams. The candidate must be highly efficient, career driven and adept in working in a collegial but high performance environment. The role involves managing all elements of the various dispute resolution processes, as part of a global law firm. Team Corporate & Commercial Litigation, Johannesburg
Key performance areas
Consult with clients and counsel Draft legal opinions, pleadings and correspondence Manage work to support optimal utilisation Assist senior lawyers as required, acting as lead lawyer, where appropriate Offer high quality legal advice to clients Comply with risk requirements, firm policies and all relevant professional responsibilities and legislation Delegate and provide feedback to juniors and communicate progress on tasks to supervisor and team members, consulting and offering solutions on difficult technical client issues Manage, develop and strengthen client relationships through anticipating client needs and expectations; and provide prompt responses and updates on progress. Consult with clients and/or counsel Support the firm and others in establishing effective relationships with individuals and groups, across the global network Uphold the firm’s values Prepare cases for trial or arbitration Maintaining the confidentiality of legal documents and client records Litigating in civil courts, tribunals and arbitration Contribute to the firm’s initiatives (e.g. corporate social responsibility and diversity and inclusion activities) Competencies Sound legal technical and commercial ability Sound legal knowledge Impeccable research and presentation skills Legal drafting, business acumen Commerciality 2 Project management Job requirements Ability to understand court processes and advise thereon Arbitration and mediation experience Solid legal drafting and research skills Deliver excellent client service as well as manage and deliver discrete pieces of legal work. Build a solid foundation of commercial and legal expertise within a chosen area of law Strengthen relationships with clients, frequently acting as a direct point of contact. Demonstrate ability to manage and delegate work to and support junior colleagues. Strong opinion writing skills Demonstrate expert administrative and project management skills Maintain efficient turnaround times Ability to work well under pressure without compromising work quality or standards Ability to handle high volumes and many matters as well as meet deadlines with the view to adding value to the business by delivering the required results Ability to assist with knowledge transfer to junior professionals and take advantage of team interactions Ability to produce consistent high-quality work Display honesty and integrity at all times Ability to communicate well in writing and verbally, with good presentation skills
Qualifications & Experience
Admitted as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa
2-3 years PQE in Commercial Litigation / Dispute Resolution Good understanding of law firm profitability and key drivers for financial efficiency; and ability to help manage costs and budgets Solid knowledge of chosen area of law and industry sector(s) Strong legal skills, including drafting, negotiation, and project management skills; foundation level people management and business development skills Attributes and knowledge Personal leadership: Takes initiative, embraces challenges, results driven, works with integrity.
