SENIOR STATE ADVOCATE

Job Overview

The National Prosecuting Authority is hiring a Senior State Advocate based in Polokwane, Limpopo (Reference: RECRUIT 2026/326). The role requires an LLB degree (or appropriate legal qualification for serving prosecutors), at least eight years of post-qualification legal experience in civil and/or criminal litigation, and at least three years in organised crime prosecution. Responsibilities include conducting criminal proceedings, guiding complex investigations, representing the state in court, and mentoring staff. Applications must be submitted via email.

Requirements & Qualifications

• An LLB degree, or for serving prosecutors seeking promotion, any appropriate legal qualification.
• At least eight (8) years post qualification legal experience in civil and/or criminal litigation.
• Five (5) years’ experience in legal practice will be an added advantage.
• At least three (3) years’ experience in the prosecution or litigation of organised crime cases.
• Admission as an advocate or attorney will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrable competency in acting independently, professionally, accountably and with credibility.
• Right of appearance as contemplated in section 25(2) of the NPA Act, 32 of 1998.
• High level of proficiency in prosecution/litigation, competency in guiding investigations and presenting/arguing cases in court.
• Experience in guiding criminal investigations and giving instructions in law and statutory offences.
• Interpersonal skills and good knowledge of civil and/or criminal procedure.
• Good advocacy, well developed skills in legal research and legal drafting skills.
• Knowledge of asset forfeiture law will be an added advantage.
• Strong computer skills and knowledge of programs in MS Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
• Written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work independently.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Study case dockets and decide on the institution of and conduct criminal proceedings.
• Deal with any representations.
• Guide investigations in complex or more difficult matters, including commercial, corruption and organised crime matters.
• Prepare cases for court, including acquisition of additional evidence and draft charge sheets, indictments, heads of argument, opinions and all other court documents.
• Represent the state in all courts, lead and cross examine witnesses, and address the court on conviction and sentence.
• Manage court and case flow management of cases independently.
• Study and deal with appeals and reviews.
• Manage any portfolio assigned by the Deputy Director managing the OCC.
• Mentor and guide DPCI and SAPS investigating officers, prosecutors and stakeholders.
• Assist in high profile matters and matters where an increased risk element is present.
• Promote partner integration, community involvement and customer satisfaction in conjunction with partners in the criminal justice system.
• Mentor and coach junior staff, quality check their work, and participate in their performance assessments.

Enquiries & Contact