About the job
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Attorney to join Bishop Fraser's practice in Sandton, Johannesburg, with a focus on commercial law and litigation.
Bishop Fraser is a boutique commercial law firm, offering precise counsel, practical solutions, built on partnership. We act as embedded, senior counsel to clients across mining, energy, infrastructure and other commercial sectors, and we're growing our team to keep pace.
The Work
The role will involve running High Court litigation matters and commercial transactions and advisory work side by side, from instruction through to resolution. As a small firm, the successful candidate will be expected to take ownership of their own files, manage client relationships directly, and exercise independent judgment, while still working collaboratively with the rest of the team on larger or more complex matters.
Key responsibilities
- Running High Court litigation matters independently, from pleadings through to trial or settlement
- Drafting pleadings, affidavits, heads of argument, and litigation strategy
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial agreements
- Researching law and drafting clear, commercially sound legal opinions
- Advising clients on commercial and contractual risk
- Briefing and liaising with counsel
- Managing client relationships and keeping clients informed at each stage of a matter
- Attending to smaller matters independently, and taking a leading role on larger or more complex matters
Minimum requirements
- Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa
- Minimum 4 years' PQE, with substantial High Court litigation experience
- Strong commercial law background
- Exceptionally strong academic record
Skills and attributes
- Sound commercial judgment and the ability to align legal advice to business objectives
- Proven ability to manage a full caseload independently, with minimal oversight
- Strong personal accountability and ownership of outcomes
- Excellent drafting and advocacy skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong client relationship management skills
- A collaborative mindset, able to work well within a small, close-knit team
- Sound ethical judgment and professional integrity
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing deadlines
This is a demanding but rewarding role for someone who wants genuine ownership of their matters, direct client exposure, and a seat at the table in a growing boutique firm — rather than being one of many associates on a large file.
Remuneration is market-related.
How to apply
Send your CV, academic transcript, and a short cover note to [email protected] & [email protected]
Work Location: In person
