SAO Legal: Advisory Services at The Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA)

Qualification/s Requirements

• A relevant three years National Diploma/Degree with 3 years experience within the legal environment. Computer literacy that includes the working knowledge of MS Office products Knowledge of Public Service Act. Knowledge of SA Pensions Fund Legislation. Good communication skills both written and verbal. 

Key Performance Areas

Provide Legal Admin Services

•  Assist management in providing legal advice, guidance and opinions to the top management and GPAA at large on matters relating to GEP Law, 1996 and other legal matters. Peruse documents and escalate to seniors where relevant. Peruse and comment on a variety of legal documents to ensure that they are legally compliant. Effectively administer legal matters within the department.

Litigation management

• Diarize, scheduled hearings and ensure court process is attended to. Collect information and documentation as required to proceed with matters referred to Legal in relation to interpretation of GEP Law, 1996. Explain the process to applicants of submitting divorce, life partner and other relevant claims in terms of GEP Law 1996. Research inquiries, corrects errors, resolves discrepancies and notifies applicants of action decision taken. Research laws, regulations, policies and precedent decisions to prepare for hearings and to respond to inquiries from case managers and supervisors. Prepare assembles and checks materials for each hearing session/dispute resolution. Prepare a report on decisions and recommendations. Examine case records and official files and ensures that all documents and exhibits are fully documented in the record. Conduct legal research to fully address all legal arguments. Manage that all panel members complete the claims from for their fees. Prepare instructions for administration in respect of court decision. Attend a bill of costs and to appeal emanating of high court.

Review litigated claims or claims with disputes.

• Confer with individual or organization involved in cases in order to obtain relevant information. Explain to claimants how they can appeal rulings that go against them. Compile submissions and instructions for recommendation.

Render Administrative Support

• Attend to court process served on the GPAA and any other claims submitted in terms of GEP Law, 1996. Prepare written review and evaluate data on documents such as claim applications, birth or death certificates and/or employer records. Maintain hearing documents, calendars hearing dates and confirms hearing. Adherence to court decisions with written instruction to subordinates to comply with court decision. Manage that files are kept and updated on statistics record of court cases. Prepare memoranda and drafts of decisions and judgements. Prepares and issues written decisions within timely manner to meet requirements. Assist the supervisor with training on legislation and legislative drafting as well as other legal topics.

Supervision of staff.

• Allocate work according to skills and competencies. Manage staff performance. Develop, train and coach staff. Maintain discipline. Provide monthly statistics. Ensure that subordinates are informed about changes in work environment or management decisions.