COURT PREPARATION OFFICER National Prosecutions Service

The Court Preparation Officer position within the National Prosecutions Service offers a meaningful opportunity to support the justice system by caring for those who come into court as victims, witnesses, and customers. Based at either the Welkom (Kroonstad) or Kimberley (Hopetown) centre, the role is central to ensuring that vulnerable individuals are not further traumatised by their involvement in criminal proceedings. The officer works within the broader prosecuting environment, liaising closely with prosecutors and managers to provide a safe, secure, and supportive space where witnesses can testify with confidence. This is a victim-centred role that requires both empathy and professionalism, as the officer helps prepare both children and adults for the court experience.

Candidates must hold an appropriate Bachelor’s degree at NQF level 7, or a three-year diploma at NQF level 6, in Social Science, Behavioural Studies, or an equivalent qualification. At least one year of working experience is required, including any experience gained during practical training. The role demands demonstrated competency in acting independently, professionally, accountably, and with credibility. Strong coordination and counselling skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively with children. A sound knowledge of the Criminal Justice System is required, along with excellent administrative, communication, and problem-solving abilities. These competencies ensure the officer can manage the complexities of court preparation while maintaining the trust and confidence of those they assist.

The core duties involve providing holistic and integrated care for victims of crime, customers, and witnesses within the court environment. The officer must actively prevent secondary traumatisation by creating a safe and secure atmosphere in which witnesses can testify. This includes implementing structured court preparation programmes for both child and adult victims, customers, and witnesses, and performing all related tasks in line with generally accepted court preparation techniques. The officer is expected to liaise with and report to the Prosecutor or Manager, ensuring that all preparation work aligns with the needs of the prosecution and the well-being of the witness.

Applicants should note several important conditions attached to this vacancy. The position is graded at salary level 07, and the appointment will be provisional pending the outcome of a security clearance at least at confidential level. Fingerprints will be taken on the day of the interview, and the social media accounts of shortlisted applicants may be accessed as part of the verification process. A valid driver’s licence is required where applicable. All shortlisted candidates will undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. Applications must be submitted using the new Z83 form along with a comprehensive CV, and only shortlisted candidates will need to provide certified copies of qualifications and other documents. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation report if shortlisted. The NPA uses an electronic response handling system for emailed applications, and applicants who do not receive an acknowledgement within one week after the closing date may contact the NPA. The NPA reserves the right not to fill the post, and if no feedback is received within six months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. The NPA also advises that it is not in a position to pay resettlement costs for successful candidates.