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.
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are invited to submit their CV for consideration.
Kindly note that you will be redirected to the Ditto website in order to submit your application for this position.