Associate: IP Litigation

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:
ASSOCIATE – INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION Department: Litigation Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng Reporting to: Head of Litigation \/ Director Employment Type: Full-time The successful candidate will assist with and independently manage a range of intellectual property and commercial litigation matters , from initial instruction through to settlement, judgment or trial. The role will have a particular focus on IP disputes , while also providing exposure to broader commercial litigation. The ideal candidate will have strong litigation experience, excellent drafting and research skills, sound legal judgment and a genuine interest in developing a long-term career in intellectual property law. Key Responsibilities Litigation Manage and assist with intellectual property and commercial litigation matters. Draft pleadings, notices, affidavits, applications, heads of argument and other court documents. Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions and advice. Prepare matters for motion and trial proceedings. Attend court appearances, hearings, case management meetings, mediations and consultations. Assist with discovery, expert evidence and trial preparation. Manage litigation files and ensure all procedural and statutory deadlines are met. Liaise with clients, counsel, experts, attorneys and other stakeholders. Develop litigation strategies in consultation with senior practitioners. Negotiate settlements and assist with drafting settlement agreements. Keep clients regularly informed regarding the progress of their matters. Intellectual Property The role will have a particular focus on disputes involving: Trade mark infringement and passing-off. Copyright infringement. Patent and design disputes. Unlawful competition. Trade secret and confidential information disputes. Domain name disputes. IP-related commercial disputes. Enforcement of intellectual property rights. Opposition, cancellation and related IP proceedings where applicable. Client & Practice Management Provide commercially focused legal advice to clients. Build and maintain strong client relationships. Exercise sound legal judgment and identify legal and commercial risks. Work collaboratively with the firm's Prosecution and other legal teams. Assist with business development and client presentations where required. Maintain accurate time records and meet billing and financial targets. Ensure compliance with firm policies and professional obligations. Minimum Requirements LLB degree. Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa. 3–5 years' post-admission experience , with meaningful litigation experience. Previous experience in intellectual property litigation . Previous experience within an IP-focused law firm is preferred. Strong knowledge of South African civil procedure and litigation practice. Excellent legal drafting and research skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a small team. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple matters and competing deadlines. Commercially minded with a strong client-service orientation. Advantageous High Court litigation experience. Experience in trade mark, copyright, patent or design disputes. Experience working with counsel and expert witnesses. Demonstrated interest in developing a long-term career in intellectual property law. Existing client relationships and\/or business-development experience. Please send your CV to