Paralegal I

Duties and responsibilities

• Attend to and manage standard anti-counterfeiting and general trade mark litigation such as oppositions, infringements and company name objection matters.
• Preparing and drafting of schedules, standard affidavits, standard agreements, etc.
• Preparing letters of demand.
• Maintaining records on Patricia system.
• Dealing with urgent matters promptly and efficiently and ensuring that all urgent tasks are completed on time.
• Dealing skilfully with difficult and advanced telephone enquiries.
• Conduct and/or organise trade investigations.
• Preparing monthly or quarterly reports for clients on the status of various matters being handled on their behalf.
• Prepare draft expert and complaint affidavits for submission to SAPS and SARS.
• Drafting civil summons and other court pleadings.
• Drafting Default Judgment applications and briefing Counsel.
• Liaising with correspondent attorneys in different jurisdictions.
• Assist with invoicing.
• Liaise and coordinate with the Sheriffs regarding writ executions.
• Liaise with the Police, CIPC and SARS officials in all matters relating to Anti-Counterfeiting.
• Managing Partner’s diary.

Skills and knowledge

• A meticulous bilingual person with excellent communication skills.
• Computer literate in MS-Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Typing speed of 60+wpm.
• Ability to work independently, to work under pressure, to use initiative and meet deadlines.
• Ability to prioritize.
• Good organizational skills.
• Must be flexible regarding time.
• Proficiency in Patricia and CMS will be advantageous.
• Experience in anti-counterfeiting will be beneficial.

Qualification/s

• Matric / National Diploma or equivalent qualification.
• Litigation experience is preferable.
• Between three to five years senior secretarial experience.
• A paralegal diploma will be advantageous.
• Familiarity with Patricia system will be advantageous.