| Government Entity | Office of the Chief Justice |
|---|---|
| Reference Number | 2026/CAS16/OCJ |
| Closing Date | September 28, 2026 |
| Apply here | judiciary.org.za |
This internship programme within the Court Administration Services (Legal) unit offers a valuable opportunity for law graduates to gain hands-on experience in the Gauteng Division of the High Court, based at Pretoria. The position is a structured, fixed-term training placement under the broader umbrella of the Office of the Chief Justice, designed to expose participants to the daily operations of the High Court and to help build a skilled pipeline of legal professionals for the judiciary. Interns will work within the court administration environment, which forms the backbone of the court’s functioning, and will be expected to contribute meaningfully while learning from experienced court officials, legal professionals, and magistrates or judges.
The minimum entry requirements are a Grade 12 certificate and an LLB degree at NQF level 8 with 480 credits, as recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This ensures that candidates already possess a sound theoretical foundation in law and are ready to apply that knowledge in a practical, administrative court setting. Applicants should also have strong communication and organisational skills, a willingness to learn, and the ability to handle confidential and sensitive material with integrity.
Although the internship focuses on court administration, its legal orientation means that the successful incumbent will be involved in a range of legal support duties. These may include assisting with the preparation and management of court files, performing legal research, drafting and checking legal documents, helping to register and track cases, supporting the registrar’s office, and providing general administrative assistance to court personnel. Interns may also have the opportunity to observe courtroom proceedings, interact with legal practitioners, and gain an understanding of how court records, judgments, and case flow are handled. The experience is intended to develop practical skills in legal administration, document management, and court procedure, all of which are essential for a future career in the justice system.
This is an entry-level internship position, not a permanent post, and participants will receive a monthly stipend during the contract period. The programme is part of a broader recruitment effort within the judiciary, and applicants may be considered for placement at different court centres within the Gauteng Division, including Pretoria, Johannesburg, and the Labour and Labour Appeal Courts, depending on operational requirements and the applicant’s preferred application route. It is important to note that separate email addresses are provided for each court centre, so candidates should apply through the appropriate channel relevant to their preferred location. Enquiries can be directed to the designated technical and HR contacts for further clarity about the role. The advertisement is circulated through the official judiciary website, and all applications must meet the prescribed submission format and deadline. This internship is an ideal starting point for a graduate who wants to understand the inner workings of the High Court while building a professional network within the legal sector.
Source / Circular Reference
judiciary.org.za