Paralegal

OVERVIEW

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Conveyancing Paralegal to support a busy Property Law practice with end-to-end administration of residential and commercial transactions. The role encompasses core paralegal responsibilities to ensure seamless execution across bond registrations and cancellations, property transfers, notarial work coordination, due diligence processes, client liaison, and practice administration. The successful candidate will be a proactive problem solver with deep conveyancing experience, strong stakeholder communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple matters in a deadline-driven environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Bond Registrations:

• Draft and lodge bond registration documents with the Deeds Office.
• Liaise with banks, transfer attorneys, and clients to ensure compliance with financial institution requirements.
• Verify property descriptions, conditions of title and mortgage bond details.
• Manage correspondence with financial institutions regarding bond instructions and queries.
• Maintain accurate electronic filing systems, including uploading, organizing, and retrieving files and documents as required.

Bond Cancellations:

• Prepare and lodge bond cancellation instructions.
• Communicate with banks, clients, and simul attorneys to confirm cancellation figures.
• Ensure compliance with timelines for bond cancellations.
• Oversee the reconciliation and return of original transfer and/or bond documents.

Property Transfers:

• Drafting agreements of sale, transfer documents, and related affidavits.
• Coordinate with buyers, sellers, and estate agents.
• Conduct title deed and property search verifications.
• Manage and apply for compliance certificates (e.g., electrical, rates clearance, SARS clearance).
• Oversee the registration of property transfers at the Deeds Office.
• Attend to the finances.

Minor Commercial Drafting:

Provide support with contract management and compliance.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain and update conveyancing records and systems.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.
• Manage deadlines effectively and communicate updates to clients.
• Provide professional support to attorneys and other team members.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Proficiency in conveyancing software (e.g., Lexis Convey,e4 and Stordoc).
• Strong understanding of the Deeds Office process, property laws, and compliance requirements.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in documentation and compliance with legal standards.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for liaising with clients and stakeholders.
• Time Management: Ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively resolve issues with minimal supervision.
• Client Service: Maintain a professional and client-focused approach.
• Team Collaboration: Work effectively as part of a diverse and fast-paced team.

QUALIFICATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Matric / Grade 12 (compulsory).
• Diploma or qualification in conveyancing, legal practice, or paralegal studies (preferred).
• Minimum 3 - 5 years of experience in a conveyancing role, with exposure to bond registrations, bond cancellations, and property transfers.
• Experience with Nedbank Private Wealth, ABSA CPF and Structured finance and Investec panels would be advantageous.
• Experience with 3E billing system (or similar) will be an advantage.

This is a demanding but stimulating position which will require working outside of normal office hours, when necessary.

ENS is committed to transformation and achieving equity in its workplaces. Placement of a suitably qualified and skilled candidate will therefore be made in line with our Employment Equity objectives.