REGIONAL COURT CONTROL PROSECUTOR National Prosecutions Service

This is a senior prosecutorial leadership role within the National Prosecutions Service, offering an opportunity for experienced legal professionals to act as Regional Court Control Prosecutors. The successful candidates will be based at one of three centres in the Mpumalanga area, namely Emalahleni (Evander), Emalahleni (Kwa-Mhlanga), or Middelburg (Elukwatini). The position is a control prosecutor post, meaning it carries both hands-on prosecution responsibilities and supervisory authority over other prosecutors. It is graded at a senior level and forms part of the broader management structure of the Director of Public Prosecutions division, with an expectation that the incumbent will travel within the division as operational demands require.

To be considered, applicants must hold an LLB degree; however, serving prosecutors seeking promotion may offer any appropriate legal qualification instead. A minimum of six years of post-qualification legal experience is required. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to act independently, professionally, accountable and with credibility, and must possess sound management skills. A thorough knowledge of legislation applicable to the public service is essential, including the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Act, the Public Service Act, labour legislation, and related regulations. Practical proficiency in prosecution and litigation is critical, as is the ability to guide investigations and give instructions in complex common law and statutory offences across both Regional and District Courts. General computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office, and a valid driver’s licence are also required.

The core duties involve managing, supervising and conducting prosecutions in accordance with legislation, NPA policy directives and related instructions. The role includes screening dockets, making prosecutorial decisions, guiding investigations, ensuring trial readiness and preparing matters for court. The incumbent will conduct and manage criminal proceedings, including bail applications, trials, sentence proceedings and other complex matters, while applying a victim-centred approach. Consultation with victims, witnesses, investigating officers, legal representatives and other stakeholders is a key responsibility. The role also involves drafting and checking charge sheets, plea and sentence agreements, legal opinions, reports, representations and other court documents. A significant managerial component includes promoting court productivity through case flow management, monitoring backlog, remand detainees, priority matters, AFU and money laundering cases, and verifying performance information, court returns, registers and electronic case management data. The post holder must identify operational challenges, implement corrective measures, and take responsibility for training, coaching, mentoring and guiding prosecutors, including performance management and disciplinary processes where necessary.

Applicants should note several important conditions attached to the selection process. Applications must be submitted on the official Z83 form accompanied by a comprehensive CV, as incomplete submissions will be disqualified. Shortlisted candidates will be required to produce certified copies of qualifications and, if applicable, a SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications. Successful candidates will be subjected to security clearance at least at confidential level, and fingerprints will be taken on the day of the interview. The NPA may also access shortlisted applicants’ social media accounts as part of verification. All shortlisted candidates, including those at SMS level, will undergo pre-entry assessments covering practical exercises and integrity testing, with additional psychometric assessments and lifestyle audits applicable to SMS posts. A pre-entry certificate from the National School of Government is required for SMS applicants. The NPA reserves the right not to fill any position, and candidates who do not receive feedback within six months of the closing date should assume their application was unsuccessful.