Office of the Chief Justice: Judge’s Secretaries (x64 Posts)

Office of the Chief Justice Judge’s Secretaries

The Office of the Chief Justice is inviting applications for 64 Judge’s Secretary positions (48 Months Non-Renewable) across the Gauteng Division of the High Court. These roles are pivotal in supporting the Judges by ensuring efficient management of administrative tasks and the smooth operation of court activities.

• Location: Gauteng Division of the High Court, Pretoria and Johannesburg
• Salary: R308,154 – R362,413 per annum (Level 07), plus 37% in lieu of benefits. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) is seeking dynamic and skilled individuals for the position of Judge’s Secretary. This role is crucial in supporting the judiciary and ensuring the efficient functioning of the court system. As a Judge’s Secretary, you will be responsible for a variety of administrative and clerical tasks that facilitate the work of judges in various courts across South Africa.

Key Responsibilities:

• Attend and screen all incoming and outgoing telephone calls.
• Schedule and manage appointments and meetings for the Judge.
• Type judgments and maintain proper correspondence records.
• Hand down signed judgments and orders, either in court or virtually.
• Expedite handling and typing of draft judgments.
• Screen visitors in the Judge’s Chambers and manage their queries.
• Record and file all incoming and outgoing documents.
• Order and collect stationery for the Judge.
• Prepare court files and ensure timely access to necessary documents.
• Maintain an updated register of reviews and reserved judgments.
• Communicate with parties involved about reserved judgment dates and procedures.
• Prepare court rolls for Opposed Motion and Urgent Court sessions and distribute them to stakeholders.
• Administer the correct Oath ID or declaration in court when required.
• Handle and control exhibits with professionalism.
• Coordinate travel and accommodation arrangements for the Judge.
• Submit the Judge’s logbook and manage vehicle maintenance bookings.
• Process submissions of invoices, claims, and updates for the Judge’s library.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Matric certificate.
• LLB degree or a four-year legal qualification (or equivalent).
• Valid driver’s license.

Skills and Experience:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong administration and organizational abilities.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with a customer service focus.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines and work under pressure.
• Attention to detail and proficiency in typing, including Dictaphone typing.
• Computer literacy, particularly in MS Word.
• Research capabilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage time effectively.

Assessment:
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a typing proficiency test and a pre-entry practical exercise to assess their suitability for the position.

Company Culture and Values

The Office of the Chief Justice upholds integrity, professionalism, and respect for the law. Our commitment is to ensure access to justice for all, while promoting a supportive work environment that encourages teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary package with additional benefits.
• Opportunity to gain invaluable experience in the legal field.

How to Apply?

ABOUT Office of the Chief Justice

The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) is a newly established National Department proclaimed by the President of the Republic of South Africa on 23 August 2010.

Subsequent to the Proclamation of the OCJ as a National Department, the Minister for Public Service and Administration made a determination regarding the purpose

and objectives of the OCJ as follows:-

• To ensure that the Chief Justice can properly execute his mandate as both the head of the Constitutional Court and the head of the Judiciary;
• To enhance the institutional, administrative and financial independence of the OCJ; and
• To improve organisational governance and accountability, and the effective and efficient use of resources.

Vision

A single, transformed and independent Judicial system that guarantees access to justice for all.

Mission

To provide support to the Judiciary to ensure effective and efficient court administration services.