Job Purpose

Legal Counsel is responsible for management of civil and criminal court cases, maintenance of the litigation database and assisting in case investigation and assessment on behalf of the company. The position ensures that the company’s dispute resolution mechanisms are effective and that court cases are properly managed in compliance with the country’s legal and regulatory framework. The position shall also be an advisory one with the officer providing expert opinion and execution on all matters pertaining litigation and risk management. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in managing all litigation matters within the company and its subsidiaries, including handling matters in person as required 
• Receive and process summons and pleadings filed against the company 
• Ensure accurate documentation of cases, including maintaining the litigation tracker and keeping records of all upcoming court dates and case progress for each case 
• Give sound legal opinions on litigation matters within the company and its subsidiaries with key focus on cost management 
• Draft for review and approval all demand letters, legal instruments and court defense responses 
• Participate in negotiation of out of court settlements and draft settlement agreements for execution 
• Conduct legal research, monitor legislation changes and advise management on the same 
• Visit different courts throughout the country to follow up on litigation matters and support field teams in prosecution of cases as may be required
• Initiate process of case withdrawal from court where matter has been settled and debt cleared 
• Together with the Legal manager, map out the company’s litigation portfolio 
• Oversee legal compliance in all facilities leased by the company 
• Maintain regular communication with external panel of lawyers, insurance service providers and other stakeholders 
• Any other duties as assigned from time to time 

Requirements:

Education and Experience 

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from a recognized institution 
• Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience 

Technical Skills 

• Litigation & Contract Management 
• Legal policies and procedures 
• Relationship building 
• Teamwork and collaboration 
• People skills 
• Records management 

Behavioral Skills 

• Creativity in developing dispute resolution solutions towards out of court settlements 
• Develop and improve on processes 
• Promote good working relationships with all stakeholders in the litigation process 
• Self motivated