OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATE: PARALEGAL
What is a paralegal?
The National Paralegal Institute identifies a Paralegal as a person who is qualified by education, training or work experience to perform legal,
social welfare or related work, which requires a basic knowledge of the law.
THE PARALEGAL MAY BE FOUND:
. In community based advice offices run by community organisations or NGO’s
. Employed by a government department or a non-government organisation
. Working in Labour Law consultancies or for trade unions
. Employed by a Legal Practitioner or Legal Firm
. Self-employed as a Paralegal Practitioner or Legal consultant
. Employed in a banking, insurance or other corporate environment
. The Minister of Police has recently indicated the South African Police Services will be looking to employ Paralegals to assist in police stations
throughout the country.
Core Competencies of a Paralegal include:
. Helping people comply with administrative functions such as the completion of official documentation.
. Understanding fundamental legal concepts.
. Providing basic legal advice.
. Understanding when to refer matters to a Legal Practitioner.
. Advising and educating communities of their Human Rights.
The course is registered on the National Qualification’s Framework at Level 5 (NQF5). The School is FULLY accredited by QCTO through
SASSETA to provide training and learner assessment. The School offers a unique programme which includes additional legal content modules
in order to ensure that our graduates receive a fully integrated qualification.
Since a certain amount of mature language comprehension is required it is recommended that prospective students have completed grade 12
schooling (matric) OR be at least 23 years of age with at least 3 years working experience (without a grade 12/matric qualification). Please feel
free to discuss any concerns you may have in this regard.
