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About the Law Clerkship Programme
The Constitutional Court of South Africa invites qualified candidates to apply for its Law Clerkship Programme 2026. This is an incredible opportunity for aspiring legal professionals to gain invaluable experience working alongside the country’s most respected legal minds while contributing to constitutional jurisprudence.
Each Justice of the Constitutional Court is supported by two Law Clerks who conduct legal research and assist in drafting judgments, legal opinions, and case analyses. The programme provides unparalleled exposure to South Africa’s highest court, allowing participants to deepen their knowledge of constitutional law and enhance their research and analytical skills.
Appointments are offered for two periods:
- January 2026 to December 2026, or
- July 2026 to June 2027.
Applicants are required to indicate their preferred period when applying. However, assignments to a specific Justice are not guaranteed, as the selection process ensures representation from diverse backgrounds across South Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Law Clerk Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Matric certificate and an LLB degree (or a four-year legal qualification equivalent or postgraduate degree) OR be in the final year of study for such a degree.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in constitutional law.
- Exhibit academic excellence and preferably have prior research experience.
- Be a South African citizen.
- Submit an example of written legal work (6–12 pages) showcasing critical legal analysis, written solely by the applicant.
Applicants with foreign qualifications must submit an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Benefits of the Constitutional Court of South Africa Clerkship Programme
Successful candidates will receive:
- A contractual salary of R 444,036 per annum plus 37% in lieu of benefits.
- Please note that no additional benefits, such as relocation or accommodation allowances, are provided. Applicants must arrange their own housing and transportation.
How to Apply
To apply for the Constitutional Court of South Africa Clerkship Programme, candidates must submit a comprehensive application, including the following:
- NEW Z83 Form: Available online at and accessible via the link below, or obtainable from Public Service Departments. The form must be fully completed, signed, and initialled.
- Cover Letter: A well-written application letter explaining your suitability for the position.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting academic and professional achievements.
- Copies of Qualifications: Matric certificate, academic transcripts, and degree certificates.
- Identity Document (ID): A clear copy of the applicant’s South African ID.
- Recommendation Letters: Three references, including their names, emails, and phone numbers.
- Sample of Written Work: A critical legal analysis (6–12 pages) written solely by the applicant.
Applications can be submitted via:
- Email: Send to applications@concourt.org.za with the relevant reference number.
- Postal Service: Address to The Director: Human Resources, Office of the Chief Justice, Private Bag X10, Marshalltown, 2107.
- Hand Delivery: Drop off at Office of the Chief Justice, Human Resource Management and Development, 188 14th Road, Noordwyk, Midrand, 1685.
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified documents during the interview stage.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Deadline: 31 March 2025.
- Notification: Applicants who do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
By participating in this prestigious Constitutional Court of South Africa Clerkship Programme, you will:
- Work with South Africa’s top legal experts and contribute to shaping constitutional law.
- Gain practical experience in legal research, case analysis, and judgment drafting.
- Develop invaluable skills that will enhance your career in legal practice or academia.
For further inquiries, contact the Human Resources Department at 010 493 2500 or via email with attention to Mses. C Gideon, B Rakgotho, and L Mothemane.
Take the next step in your legal career—apply today. Click the link below to apply for the 2026 Constitutional Court Law Clerk Programme!
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