About the Organisation
The Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) is a public interest law firm in Namibia dedicated to human rights. One of its key projects, the Land Environment and Development (LEAD) initiative, launched in 1997, focuses on fair and lawful access to land and sustainable natural resource management. LEAD's mission includes law and policy reform, strategic litigation, advocacy, and training, targeting land rights, environmental protection, and sustainable development. The project supports vulnerable communities, particularly in land and environmental disputes.
This role will be part of the African Climate Legal Fellowship Programme (ACLFP), a pilot initiative aimed at bringing experienced lawyers to the environmental public interest sector in Africa and providing pathways for new talent to enter the public interest sector. In addition to the LAC placement, Fellows will be part of a broader cohort benefiting from mentorship, coaching and leadership development, training in environmental and climate change law and science, and a network of likeminded lawyers in Africa. Travel within Africa for a launch convening will also be required. IREX, a global non-profit that has supported more than 50,000 Fellows over 50 years, will implement the fellowship and provide ongoing support to you and your nonprofit organization.
About the Job
The primary purpose of the Legal Practitioner/Legal Consultant is to provide expert legal advice and support to clients, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This role involves analyzing comples legal issues, preparing legal documents, representing clients in legal proceedings, and developing strategies to mitigate legal risks. The Legal Practitioner/Legal Consultant works closely with clients to understand their needs and objectives, delivering tailored solutions to achieve favorable outcomes while upholding the highest standards of professional ethics and integrity.
Key Responsibilities
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA).
Demonstrate knowledge of EIA and SEA processes, including international standards and best practices.
Ensure compliance with relevant environmental regulations and guidelines.
Environmental and Climate Knowledge
Apply environmental and/or climate knowledge in project planning and execution.
Stay updated with current environmental issues and integrate this knowledge into work processes.
Community Engagement and Cultural Competency
Engage meaningfully with diverse communities, showing cultural competency and empathy.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders to ensure inclusive project outcomes.
Team Collaboration and Independence
Work effectively both independently and as part of collaborative teams.
Contribute to team goals while managing individual tasks efficiently.
Creativity and Innovation
Bring creative solutions to environmental and community engagement challenges.
Encourage innovative thinking within the team to enhance project outcomes.
Data Analysis
Utilize data analysis skills to support project objectives (preferred but not mandatory).
Show willingness to learn and develop data analysis capabilities.
Other duties:
Represent individuals and communities in Land, Environment and Development which includes, consulting with clients, legal research, drafting correspondence, drafting pleadings, file maintenance and liaise with counsel.
Provide assistance with the development of legal publications and legal research documents.
Represent the LAC at different fora.
Submit case reports to the Co-ordinator.
Provide assistance with the development of community educational materials.
Bill summaries.
Requirements
LLB degree or other recognized Law Degree
Minimum 4 years post-admission experience
A valid driver’s license
The ability to communicate and negotiate at all levels
A systematic methodical approach to work
A willingness and ability to travel out of town and to rural areas when required
Tolerance and respect for diverse viewpoints and choices.
Good command of the English language (both written and oral)
A keen interest and belief in human and constitutional rights.
To apply
To apply, email your application by Monday 2nd September 2024 to tracy@actionappointments.co.za
