Kuni Jane Caroline Ditira

As a State Law Adviser in the Legal Services Directorate of the Office of the Premier, I lead a team of State Law Advisers tasked to render legal support to the Premier, Members of the Eecutive Council and Heads of Departments. My duties include, conducting legal research, rendering legal advice (written and oral), drafting Acts, editing Proclamations and Provincial Notices and reviewing, vetting and drafting contracts and Provincial Legislation regularly. In this position, I also the Head of the administrative component of the unit. As such, I am responsible for, amongst other managerial duties, the management of the support staff and also the Information Officer for the Department.

I was seconded to the Legal Services unit of the Department of Health again after the Director of Legal Services having left the unit. I ensured that the unit continues to run smoothly performed all the duties concomitant to the position of Director - Legal Services at the Department of Health.

• Participated actively in re-establishing the Legal Services unit of the Department of Health after all senior staff had left the unit and performed all the duties concomitant thereto.

• Managing and administering the operations of the Department;
• Developing, implementing, analysing and reporting on the Strategic Plan of the Department;
• Collating data to collaborate objectives achieved;
• Appearing and reporting at Provincial Treasury and Legislature Portfolios on behalf of the MEC and the HOD;
• Managing employee relationships and chairing different committees in the Department such as the Performance Management Moderating Committee, Labour Consultation Committee and Bursary Committee;

I have acted as a Head of Department on several occasions for various Provincial Departments within the Free State during my tenure in the Provincial Government. The longest HOD acting role spanning from July 2009 to September 2009.

Acted as CEO for the Free State Investment Promotion Agency and also served as an Ex Officio Board Member.

Acted as CEO at the Gambling and Racing Board and also served as an Ex Officio Board Member.

• Drafted legal documents .
• Evaluated alternative dispute resolution options where appropriate, resulting in expedited settlements.
• Proactively identified issues that could impact the course or outcome of a case, allowing for early intervention and resolution.

• Did Junior briefs which were mostly comprised of criminal matters.

• Compiled research for my mentor;
• Analysed cases and provided sound legal opinions;
• Drafted court documents.
• Achievements:
• Passed pupilage without any oral exams.

• Supervised staff, consulted with clients and employers;
• Attended the Industrial Court, Conciliation Board and Industrial Council meetings.

• Assisted supervising attorneys with consultations and office work.
• Performed all functions related to an articling Candidate Attorney.