Judges Matter X15 Legal Internships 2025
Position Summary
Company: Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Divisions of the High Court (In collaboration with the DGRU at UCT)
Industry: Legal / Judiciary / Government
Job Category: Legal Research Internship
Location: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Pietermaritzburg – South Africa
Listing Reference: Legal Internship Application 2025
Closing Date: 30 April 2025
Introduction
The Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Divisions of the High Court, in partnership with the Democratic Governance and Rights Unit (DGRU) at the University of Cape Town (UCT), are calling on young, ambitious South African law graduates to apply for the Legal Research Internship Programme 2025. This exclusive opportunity offers 15 selected interns the chance to be immersed in a highly respected legal environment, gain invaluable exposure, and sharpen their legal research capabilities through hands-on experience working directly with judges.
This 10-month fixed-term internship is uniquely designed to develop future legal minds by placing graduates directly in the judicial heart of South Africa’s busiest high courts. The programme not only enhances academic prowess through intensive legal research work but also instills the professional rigor required within the judiciary.
Job Description
Successful candidates will be employed by the University of Cape Town on a fixed-term basis and seconded to work in person at one of the following courts:
- Johannesburg High Court
- Pretoria High Court
- Durban High Court
- Pietermaritzburg High Court
The internship period spans 10 months, during which interns will:
- Receive a monthly stipend of R9 000
- Be expected to work full-time and on-site at their allocated court
- Conduct legal research, draft reports, and prepare legal documents under the supervision of assigned judges
This programme presents an ideal platform for aspiring legal professionals to build a strong foundation in legal research and judicial processes, while directly contributing to the administration of justice.
Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum entry criteria:
- Hold an LLB degree or an equivalent four-year legal qualification that is recognised and accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- Familiarity with leading electronic legal research databases, including:
- Westlaw
- LexisNexis
- Jutastat
- Sabinet
Role Responsibility
Legal Research Interns will be entrusted with several key responsibilities aimed at strengthening the research and administrative capabilities of the court. Duties include:
- Conducting in-depth legal research on a range of topics as directed by assigned judges
- Drafting well-structured legal memorandums and reports
- Retrieving and critically analysing case law, legislation, and academic commentary
- Assisting with the drafting of legal articles, speeches, and conference papers
- Attending court proceedings to observe and learn from live judicial practice
- Meeting tight deadlines while delivering high-quality, accurate legal documentation
- Supporting general legal administrative tasks within the judicial chambers
This position offers a well-rounded experience that not only enhances technical knowledge but also strengthens soft skills such as time management and team collaboration.
Skills & Attributes
Ideal candidates for this internship will demonstrate a solid mix of legal knowledge and interpersonal aptitude. The following skills and characteristics are crucial:
- Exceptional legal research abilities with a meticulous eye for detail
- Strong report writing and document editing capabilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to engage in analytical and creative thinking
- Time management skills and an ability to prioritise tasks under pressure
- Willingness to collaborate effectively within a team-based environment
- High level of initiative, reliability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving
Interns will also need to exhibit a professional demeanor, discretion, and a genuine interest in contributing to the functioning of the judicial system in South Africa.
Available Positions
There are a total of 15 internship opportunities available across two provinces:
- Gauteng Division: 10 Internship Positions
- KwaZulu-Natal Division: 5 Internship Positions
Applicants may indicate their preferred location, but placement will be based on availability and operational needs of the respective courts.
Important Dates
- Closing Date for Applications: 30 April 2025
- Shortlisted Candidates Notified By: 8 May 2025
- Internship Start Date: By no later than 1 June 2025
Timely submission of applications is crucial as no late applications will be considered. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a selection process, which may include interviews and reference checks.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining your motivation and interest in the programme
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A complete academic transcript
Applications must be emailed to:
đŸ“§ dgruapplications@uct.ac.za
Subject line: Legal Internship Application 2025
