Legal Officer - Equality Courts and Complaints Handling

About the role

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is recruiting a Legal Officer for its Legal unit in Mahikeng, reporting to the Head of Legal and Provincial Manager. The position covers handling and litigating complaints, referring matters to the Equality Court, monitoring provincial courts and drafting gender-perspective inputs to proposed legislation.

Key responsibilities

• Handle and investigate complaints lodged by members of the public, and report challenges on complaints handling to the Provincial Manager and the HOD Legal.
• Refer matters to the Equality Court and litigate on behalf of complainants; identify issues on systematic complaints with the HOD Legal.
• Monitor the operation of courts in the province and liaise with courts on matters referred by the CGE.
• Conduct mediation to resolve disputes.
• Draft inputs with a gender perspective on proposed legislation, regulations and prescripts on gender equality.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual reports and ensure the Annual Performance Plan is implemented.
• Build good working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and perform other duties requested by the PM or HOD Legal.

Required profile

• Matric and a B. Proc or LLB degree (LL.M advantageous).
• Admitted as an attorney of the High Court with at least three years' post-admission experience.
• Experience in human rights law and litigation, and extensive knowledge of Equality Court operations.
• Sound understanding of gender issues and of the CGE mandate.
• At least one African language.

Required skills

• Constitutional litigation and court processes, and mediation and conciliation (an accredited mediator is an added advantage).
• Legal research and ability to draft legally sound reports.
• Computer literacy, analytical skills and excellent written and verbal communication.

Applicants submit a CV and motivational letter, certified copies of ID, driver's licence and qualifications, and three referees by email. Background checks and psychometric assessment apply to shortlisted candidates; preference is given to South African citizens. Closing date: 09 November 2026.