Paralegal - Berea/Durban

Job Description

• An opportunity is available for an experienced and detail-oriented Paralegal to join a litigation and debt recovery team within a professional legal environment in Durban.

• The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a portfolio of matters relating primarily to the recovery of outstanding levies, handling litigation documentation, assisting with court processes and providing administrative support throughout the debt collection process.

• This role would suit a confident, organised and self-motivated individual with practical Magistrates' Court experience, strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple matters independently. A long-term commitment to the position is essential.

Skills and Attributes Required

• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.

• Excellent numerical and administrative abilities.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple files and deadlines simultaneously.

• High attention to detail and accuracy when preparing legal documentation.

• Confidence in communicating telephonically with clients, debtors, court officials and sheriffs.

• Ability to work independently, take ownership of responsibilities and follow through on outstanding matters.

• A professional and client-focused approach.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint and relevant legal practice management systems.

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

• A reliable, committed and proactive attitude, with a genuine interest in building a long-term career in a legal support role.

Qualifications and Experience

• Matric certificate, preferably with a Bachelor's pass.

• Minimum of two years' relevant experience in litigation, debt collection or a similar legal environment.

• Practical knowledge of Magistrates' Court procedures, including issuing summons, obtaining default judgments and executing warrants.

• Experience drafting litigation documents and managing debt recovery matters.

• Familiarity with legal practice management systems such as AJS or similar platforms.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Litigation and Debt Collection

• Draft combined summons relating to the recovery of outstanding and special levies on behalf of property management entities and bodies corporate.

• Prepare requests for default judgment, warrants of execution, Section 65 notices and other relevant legal documentation.

• Manage the progression of matters through the Magistrates' Court process, from issuing summons through to enforcement.

• Monitor outstanding matters and ensure that all required steps are actioned within the relevant timeframes.

• Assist with correspondent attorney instructions and related litigation administration.

• Liaise with the sheriff's offices, court personnel, debtors and clients to follow up on outstanding matters.

• Make telephone calls to debtors regarding outstanding amounts and the progress of collection matters.

Administration

• Generate and maintain invoices, statements of account and records of relevant disbursements.

• Keep accurate records of legal matters, payments, correspondence and outstanding actions.

• Manage multiple files simultaneously, ensuring that documentation and case records remain up to date.

• Assist with general administrative duties associated with litigation and debt recovery.

• Ensure that all documents and correspondence are prepared accurately and professionally.

• Provide regular updates and follow up on outstanding queries to ensure the efficient progression of matters.

Additional Information

• Start date: As soon as possible.

• This is a full-time, permanent opportunity suited to a candidate seeking long-term employment.

• Applicants who are pursuing or have completed an LLB with the intention of securing articles are not being considered for this position.