About the University/Organization

The Western Cape Division of the High Court, in collaboration with the Democratic Governance and Rights Unit (DGRU) at the Faculty of Law, University of Cape Town (UCT), offers this prestigious ten-month internship program for law graduates.

UCT, one of Africa’s leading universities, has a rich legacy in legal education and judicial research. The DGRU is known for its commitment to strengthening democracy and good governance through research and advocacy. This partnership provides young graduates with an exceptional platform to develop their skills in judicial support, legal research, and court processes.

About the Event

This internship aims to equip young law graduates with hands-on exposure to judicial work and legal research in a real court environment. Successful applicants will work directly with judges of the Western Cape High Court, conducting research, preparing memoranda, and assisting in drafting legal materials.

Although preference is given to graduates from the University of the Western Cape, Stellenbosch University, and UCT, applications are welcome from graduates of other Cape Town–based universities.

Four interns will be selected for 2025, each placed in a full-time role at the High Court.

Event Timeline

Format and Structure

• Duration: 10 months
• Mode: Offline (in-person at Western Cape High Court)
• Contract: Employed by UCT on a fixed-term basis, seconded to the High Court
• Duties include:
  • Conducting legal research for judges
  • Retrieving materials from print and electronic sources (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Jutastat, Sabinet)
  • Attending court proceedings when requested
  • Preparing comprehensive memoranda based on research findings
  • Assisting with drafting speeches, legal articles, and conference papers
  • Proofreading and editing legal content
• Evaluation: Interns must demonstrate exceptional research ability, adherence to deadlines, and professional conduct.

Location and Mode

Venue: Western Cape High Court, Cape Town, South Africa
Mode: Offline (in-person)

Additional Highlights

• Stipend: R9,000 per month
• Mentorship: Close supervision by judges and senior legal researchers
• Skill Development: Enhanced research, legal writing, and analytical thinking
• Networking: Opportunity to interact with legal professionals and judiciary members
• Preference: Applicants based in Cape Town will be prioritised

Eligibility

• LLB degree or equivalent four-year recognised legal qualification accredited by SAQA
• Strong knowledge of electronic legal databases (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Jutastat, Sabinet)
• Competence in using law library resources
• Strong research, report writing, and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines

FAQs

Q1: Who can apply?
A: Graduates holding an LLB or equivalent legal qualification from a SAQA-accredited institution.

Q2: Is this internship paid?
A: Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend of R9,000.

Q3: Is prior work experience required?
A: No, but strong academic and research skills are essential.

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Q4: Will preference be given to certain applicants?
A: Yes, preference is given to Cape Town–based graduates, particularly from UWC, Stellenbosch University, and UCT.

Q5: How many interns will be selected?
A: Four interns will be appointed for 2025.

Important Links

Downloadables

Sample Cover Letter (PDF)

Contact

Email: dgruapplications@uct.ac.za
Application Deadline: 13 August 2025

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