SENIOR PUBLIC PROSECUTOR (TUTOR)

The National Prosecutions Service is seeking a Senior Public Prosecutor (Tutor) to be based at the Emalahleni (Evander) office of the Chief Public Prosecutor. This is a dual-faceted role that combines the traditional responsibilities of a senior prosecutor with the educational function of tutoring and mentoring aspirant prosecutors in a structured, outcomes-based learning programme. The successful candidate will report to the Chief Prosecutor and the Director of Public Prosecutions, and will be expected to act independently, professionally, and with credibility at all times. The role requires someone who can manage and guide fellow prosecutors while also handling complex prosecutions in the lower courts, making it a senior position suited to an experienced legal professional who can operate without constant supervision and contribute to the broader strategic objectives of the NPA.

Applicants must hold an LLB degree, or an appropriate legal qualification if they are serving prosecutors seeking promotion. At least eight years of post-qualification legal experience is required, with five years in legal practice considered an added advantage. The ideal candidate will have prosecutorial or litigation experience in both District and Regional Courts, demonstrable management skills, and a proven ability to act independently. They must be proficient in drafting charge sheets and complex court documents, guiding investigations, and providing instructions in reasonably complex or more difficult common law and statutory offences. A valid driver’s licence and a willingness to travel within the DPP division are essential. Key competencies include strategic and general management, stakeholder engagement, people management and empowerment, communication, customer focus and responsiveness, problem-solving, decision-making, project management, administration, report writing, service delivery innovation, negotiation, policy analysis and development, research, presentation and facilitation. General computer literacy and knowledge of Microsoft Office programmes are also required.

In the tutoring component of the role, the incumbent will manage, guide and train prosecutors, as well as tutor aspirant prosecutors by facilitating practical, theoretical and interactive learning activities within an outcomes-based programme. This includes assessing learner competence, conducting and recording assessment tasks, monitoring progress, and providing constructive feedback to learners and programme coordinators. The tutor must promote effective study skills, time management, independent learning and confidence in the subject matter, while maintaining accurate attendance, progress and session records. Creating an inclusive, respectful and safe learning environment that accommodates different learning styles and abilities is a core part of this role, as is liaising with relevant staff and stakeholders on learner progress, challenges and support needs. On the prosecutorial side, the post holder will study case dockets and determine whether to institute and conduct criminal proceedings, maintenance matters and inquests of a general or more advanced nature in the Lower Courts. They will prepare matters for court by guiding investigations, consulting witnesses and obtaining additional evidence, draft charge sheets and other court documents, and present or assist in presenting the State’s case, including leading witnesses, conducting cross-examination and addressing the court on conviction, sentence and related matters.

The role also involves prioritising high-impact corruption and other matters, preparing opinions and heads of argument, and arguing matters in the appropriate court where a right of appearance exists. The Senior Public Prosecutor (Tutor) will conduct performance assessments and assist the Chief Prosecutor with staff assessments, manage the administration of the Lower Courts, and advise the relevant Chief Public Prosecutor or DPP on training needs, strategies to improve NPS performance, and the coordination or presentation of training interventions. The successful applicant will apply and promote Batho Pele Principles, the Service Charter and NPA processes, while fostering partner integration, community involvement and customer satisfaction in collaboration with stakeholders in the criminal justice system. Ensuring victim-centred services is also a key responsibility. All duties must be performed in accordance with applicable legislation, the Code of Conduct, Ethics, the Prosecution Policy and NPA Policy Directives. This is a demanding senior role that requires a balance of courtroom skill, leadership and teaching ability, and offers an opportunity to shape the next generation of prosecutors while maintaining a hands-on prosecutorial workload.