Law Researcher: Office of the Chief Justice x1
Job Details
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Job Title: Law Researcher
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Reference Number: 2025/420/OCJ
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Department: Office of the Chief Justice
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Location (Centre): Bloemfontein (Free State Division of the High Court)
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Salary: R468,459 – R551,823 per annum (Level 09)
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Employment Type: Full-time
Job Purpose (Overview)
The Law Researcher provides comprehensive legal research and analysis to support judges and court personnel.
This includes reviewing case law, legislation, and legal databases, drafting memoranda, and ensuring accuracy in judgments, legal articles, and speeches.
Minimum Requirements
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LLB degree or four-year recognised legal qualification
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Minimum 3 years relevant legal research experience
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Valid driver’s license
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LLM degree (advantage)
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Experience with legal research databases (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis, Jutastat)
Key Skills & Competencies
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Excellent legal research and analytical skills
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Report writing and editing
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Strong written and verbal communication
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Knowledge of the Constitution and relevant legislation
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Computer literacy (MS Office)
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Planning and organizing
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Attention to detail and accuracy
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Interpersonal and problem-solving skills
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Ability to work independently and under pressure
Key Responsibilities
Research & Analysis
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Retrieve legal material from both hard copy and electronic sources
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Read and analyse relevant materials thoroughly
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Prepare comprehensive legal memoranda for judges
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Monitor developments in case law and jurisprudence
Drafting & Proofreading
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Proofread judgments, articles, speeches, and conference papers
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Verify references and footnotes against original sources
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Correct documents using track changes
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Draft speeches, conference notes, and legal articles
Collaboration & Support
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Discuss legal points with judges and colleagues
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Attend to additional duties as assigned by the court
Work Environment & Expectations
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Office-based within the High Court environment
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Close collaboration with judges and court staff
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Work requires high accuracy, attention to detail, and analytical ability
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Pre-entry practical assessment will be required for shortlisted candidates
Enquiries
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Technical: Mr A. Knoetze – (051) 492 4523
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HR: Ms D. Peters – (051) 492 4523
Application Details
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Email: 2025/420/OCJ@judiciary.org.za
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Employment Equity: Preference in line with departmental goals
Key Notes
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Senior legal research position within the judiciary
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High focus on accuracy, research skills, and drafting ability
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Requires 3+ years of research experience and strong legal knowledge