Assistant State Attorney – Department of Justice and Constitutional Development | Various Provinces
Date Posted: 28 March 2025
Requisition ID: Varies by location
Contract Type: Permanent (Public Service – OSD for Legal Professionals)
Application Closing Date: 11 April 2025
Location: Multiple provincial offices including Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape
About the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD) is the constitutional custodian of South Africa’s justice system. It supports the administration of justice through legal services, court management, and upholding the rule of law. The department plays a pivotal role in transforming the legal landscape to ensure equitable, accessible justice for all citizens.
Role Overview
The Department invites applications for several Assistant State Attorney posts. This is a specialist legal role where successful candidates will provide litigation and advisory services on behalf of the State. This opportunity is ideal for LLB graduates and admitted attorneys with a passion for public service litigation, legal advisory, and constitutional law.
Key Responsibilities
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Represent the State in litigation matters in various courts.
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Provide legal opinions and advice to client departments on constitutional, administrative, and civil law issues.
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Handle drafting of pleadings, motions, affidavits, and contracts.
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Manage litigation case files and court appearances.
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Conduct legal research to support case law and policy development.
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Liaise with internal clients, departments, and stakeholders on legal matters affecting the State.
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Ensure compliance with legal standards and government litigation strategy.
Qualifications and Experience
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A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at NQF Level 7.
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Admission as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa (mandatory).
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At least 2 years’ post-admission experience in litigation and/or legal advisory roles.
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Knowledge of the Constitution, Public Finance Management Act, Civil Procedure, and government litigation practices.
Skills and Competencies
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Strong litigation skills across High Court and Magistrate’s Court levels
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Excellent legal research and analysis
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Sound understanding of public law and administrative justice
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Professional conduct and ability to work under pressure
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High standard of legal drafting and documentation
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Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
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Commitment to ethical service delivery in the public interest
What the Department Offers
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Salary in accordance with the Occupational Specific Dispensation (OSD) for Legal Professionals
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Opportunities to specialize in litigation, constitutional, and administrative law
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Access to mentorship and career progression within the State Attorney’s Office
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Contribution to meaningful change through State representation and justice reform
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is committed to employment equity and transformation. Preference will be given to candidates whose appointment will promote representativity, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted on the new Z83 form, accompanied by a comprehensive CV (no certified documents required at this stage). The application must clearly indicate:
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The post title and reference number
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The location of the position you’re applying for
Submission Methods:
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Deliver manually or by post to the relevant provincial office (addresses listed in the official vacancy circular)
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Visit the Department of Justice Careers Page for regional contacts and more info
📞 For Enquiries: Contact the relevant provincial HR section (as per the circular).
Explore More Legal Careers in Government
For additional attorney and legal administration roles in public service, visit:
👉 https://jobsandcareeropportunities.co.za
