STATE ADVOCATE REF NO: RECRUIT 2026/334 (OCC) (Re-advert) National Prosecutions Services

This is a re-advertised State Advocate post within the National Prosecuting Authority’s National Prosecutions Services, based at the Office of the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in Durban. The role sits at a senior professional level and offers an experienced legal practitioner the chance to act on behalf of the State in criminal matters across all courts. The position is an OSD-graded appointment, reflecting its seniority and the high level of independent litigation responsibility involved. As a State Advocate, you will be expected to operate with credibility, accountability and professionalism, and to manage complex criminal cases from the investigative stage through to trial and, where necessary, appeal.

To be considered, applicants must hold an LLB or, for serving prosecutors seeking promotion, any appropriate legal qualification. You must have the right of appearance as set out in section 25(2) of the NPA Act, 32 of 1998, and at least five years’ post-qualification legal experience. Demonstrable competency in acting independently, professionally, accountably and with credibility is essential, as is a high level of proficiency in prosecuting, litigating and presenting cases in court. Experience in guiding criminal investigations and providing instructions on law and statutory offences is required, along with knowledge of or experience in prosecuting matters under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work independently, are also key.

The duties are broad and demanding. You will study and guide investigations in case dockets, decide on the institution of criminal proceedings, and conduct those proceedings on behalf of the State. This includes drafting charge sheets, indictments and other court documents, preparing cases by acquiring additional evidence, and presenting the State’s case in court. You will lead and cross-examine witnesses, address the court on conviction and sentence, and study appeal and review judgments. You may be required to attend representations, prepare legal opinions and heads of argument, and argue cases in the appropriate court. Appearing in motion applications relating to criminal matters and generally conducting prosecutions are also central to the role, as is performing all related duties in line with the NPA’s code of conduct, policies and directives. The position also involves promoting partner integration, community involvement and customer satisfaction within the broader criminal justice system.

Applicants should note several important conditions. Appointment will be provisional pending a security clearance of at least confidential, and fingerprints will be taken on the day of the interview. Shortlisted candidates’ social media accounts may be accessed during verification, and a valid driver’s licence is required where applicable. All shortlisted candidates undertake pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. As this is an NPA Act appointment, the SMS pre-entry certificate requirement does not apply. The NPA retains the right not to fill the position, and candidates who do not receive feedback within six months of the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA if shortlisted, and all applications must be submitted using the updated Z83 form together with a comprehensive CV. This is an opportunity for a seasoned prosecutor to take on a pivotal role in the administration of justice in KwaZulu-Natal.