Attorney: Community Action and Research (3 years)
Job Details
- Job Title: Attorney: Community Action and Research
- Job ID: 6596
- Reference: 2272
- Department: UFS Law Clinic, Faculty of Law
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Job Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 3 years
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Assumption of Duty: 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible
- Closing Date: 17 September 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
The Attorney: Community Action and Research will provide professional legal services through the UFS Law Clinic while contributing to community engagement, legal research, student teaching and the training and supervision of candidate attorneys.
The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering legal services, including litigation-related work, supporting community-based programmes and contributing to the practical legal education of undergraduate law students.
The position also involves working closely with management structures within the Law Clinic and Faculty of Law and ensuring compliance with internal quality assurance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Services and Office Administration
The successful candidate will:
- Perform administrative duties related to the provision of legal services.
- Provide legal services in accordance with the services offered by the UFS Law Clinic.
- Draft court pleadings and attend court appearances.
- Report to management structures within the UFS Law Clinic and Faculty of Law.
- Comply with internal quality assurance measures.
Leadership, Supervision and Training
Responsibilities will include:
- Facilitating and assisting with the training of candidate attorneys.
- Supervising candidate attorneys.
- Supporting the professional development of candidate legal practitioners.
Community Engagement and Research
The successful candidate will:
- Implement, facilitate and monitor community engagement programmes and projects.
- Perform administrative duties associated with community engagement initiatives.
- Participate actively in research activities conducted by the UFS Law Clinic.
Student Teaching and Training
The role will also involve:
- Contributing to academic coordination.
- Performing administrative tasks relating to student teaching.
- Facilitating community-based learning programmes for undergraduate law students.
- Providing consultation sessions to undergraduate law students.
- Facilitating and assisting with the training of undergraduate law students.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following inherent requirements:
- An LLB degree on NQF Level 8 from a South African university.
- Be a currently admitted and practising Attorney in the High Court of South Africa.
- Have Right of Appearance in terms of Section 25(3) of the Legal Practice Act.
- Be in good standing with the relevant Legal Practice Council.
- Have at least 3 years’ post-admission experience in superior court and/or lower court litigation within the preceding 5-year period.
Applicants must provide documentary proof of the required qualifications, admission, right of appearance and good standing.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
The following will be advantageous:
- At least 3 years’ experience in teaching, facilitating legal education or legal training within a higher education environment.
- Experience supervising Candidate Legal Practitioners.
- A relevant postgraduate qualification.
- An accredited legal practice management course.
Required Competencies
Results Orientated
- Ability to adapt to a frequently changing environment.
- Ability to remain committed to tasks and overcome obstacles.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.
- Strong attention to detail and an organised approach to work.
- Ability to work towards high standards of accuracy and quality.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow rules, policies and work regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leading
- High levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to cooperate with colleagues and encourage effective teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Sensitivity and understanding of the needs and feelings of others.
- Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Benefits
Subject to applicable conditions, the successful candidate may receive fringe benefits including:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits