National Certificate Paralegal Practice

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.