Our client is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Legal Secretary to join their dynamic team at a reputable law firm. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and is dedicated to providing high-level administrative support to attorneys and legal executives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and format legal documents such as contracts, pleadings, briefs, and affidavits.
• File legal documents with courts and government agencies, both electronically and physically.
• Manage attorneys’ calendars, including scheduling meetings, hearings, and court dates.
• Handle incoming calls, emails, and correspondence on behalf of attorneys.
• Maintain and organize physical and electronic filing systems for legal documents and case files.
• Conduct basic legal research and summarize findings when required.
• Transcribe dictations and audio recordings.
• Ensure all documents adhere to legal formatting standards.
• Liaise with clients, court officials, and external stakeholders professionally.
• Track billable hours and assist with timekeeping and client billing.
• Provide general administrative support such as copying, scanning, and office supply ordering.

Qualifications & Skills:
Education:

• Matric / Grade 12 (required)
• Legal Secretary or Paralegal diploma/certificate (preferred)
• Additional training in legal studies or administration is an advantage.
• Legal Secretary Certificate/Diploma – Preferred (from institutions such as Damelin, Boston City Campus, Oxbridge Academy, etc.)

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of experience as a legal secretary or in a similar administrative role within a law firm or legal department.
• Experience with litigation, conveyancing, family law, or other legal specializations (depending on the firm).
• Direct experience with litigation matters – drafting pleadings, managing court filings, preparing trial bundles, etc.
• Familiarity with High Court and Magistrate’s Court procedures.

Skills:

• Excellent typing skills (typically 60+ WPM).
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), and legal case management software.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Exceptional organizational and time management abilities.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Legal & Litigation-Specific Skills:

• Understanding of civil and/or criminal litigation processes.
• Knowledge and experience of conveyancing transfers.
• Knowledge of court rules and procedures (including deadlines and document formatting).
• Filing of legal documents via CaseLines or Court Online (depending on jurisdiction).
• Drafting notices, subpoenas, pleadings, and other litigation documents.
• Managing litigation files from initiation to trial/hearing.