Thandoazi Tshefu
Student- Bachelor Of Arts In Communication
Johannesburg
Summary
Results-driven professional with a robust background in paralegal work and a current pursuit of a Bachelor’s in Communication Science, specializing in strategic communication. Adept at leveraging extensive experience in legal research, writing, and client relations to craft clear, compelling messages and manage complex information. Possesses strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a strategic mindset essential for developing and executing effective communication strategies. Proven ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, analyze audience needs, and drive successful communication campaigns. Committed to applying a blend of legal expertise and communication acumen to create impactful strategies and achieve organizational goals.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Paralegal Assistant
Legal Practice Council
2018.04 - 2018.12
- Legal Support:Assist non-practicing attorneys with case preparation, research, and documentation related to pro bono cases.
Draft legal documents, correspondence, and reports as needed.
Maintain and organize case files, ensuring all documents are accurate and up-to-date.
Conduct legal research and provide summaries of findings to attorneys.
Help prepare for client meetings, hearings, and other legal proceedings.
Handle confidential information with discretion and in compliance with privacy regulations.
- Pro Bono Services:Coordinate and schedule appointments for clients seeking pro bono assistance.
Provide initial intake and assessment of client needs, directing them to appropriate resources or attorneys.
Assist in the preparation of legal aid materials and informational brochures for public distribution.
- Disciplinary Matters:Assist in managing and tracking disciplinary cases involving attorneys.
Prepare and organize disciplinary documentation and evidence.
Coordinate with regulatory bodies and other agencies as required.
Support the review and processing of complaints and disciplinary actions.
- Reception Duties:Greet visitors, clients, and attorneys at the front desk, providing a warm and professional welcome.
Answer and direct phone calls, emails, and other communications.
Schedule and manage appointments, meetings, and conference rooms.
Maintain a clean and organized reception area.
Perform general office administrative tasks, including filing, faxing, and data entry.
Paralegal Intern
Legal Aid South Africa
2017.06 - 2018.01
- Enhanced legal research efficiency by utilizing advanced search techniques and legal databases.
- Researched, monitored and informed firm of legal and industry developments and trends and articulated effects on practice and clients.
- Conferred with clients and other involved parties to gather and track case information.
- Assisted lawyers with materials preparation for internal and external training events.
- Researched innovative methods of adding value to key client relationships by providing timely material to facilitate frequent interactions with clients.
- Built strong relationships with court personnel, effectively managing filing deadlines and ensuring seamless submission of legal documents.
- Collaborated with fellow interns and paralegals to complete tasks efficiently and meet deadlines consistently.
- Amended and drafted living wills, health care proxies and powers of attorney.
- Contributed to the smooth running of trial preparations by coordinating schedules, arranging meetings, and ensuring the availability of necessary materials.
- Assigned file numbers and recorded case numbers to prepare master client list.
- Expedited document production timelines by mastering software applications used in drafting pleadings, motions, briefs.
- Improved client communication by maintaining regular updates on case progress and addressing inquiries promptly.
- Streamlined office operations by implementing effective file management systems and organizational strategies.
- Strengthened the law firm''s reputation by demonstrating professionalism and maintaining strict confidentiality at all times.
- Conducted thorough investigations to gather relevant information for case development.
- Drafted and revised legal documents for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with applicable laws.
- Answered client calls to respond to inquiries, using open-ended questioning skills to attain applicable information.
- Showcased attention to detail when proofreading legal documents for grammar errors as well as ensuring citation formats comply with Bluebook standards.
- Participated in client meetings, contributing valuable insights based on research findings.
- Provided reliable assistance during discovery processes through diligent review of documents, identification of key issues, and summarization of findings for attorney review.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of South Africa
Pretoria, South Africa 2001.04 -
Higher Certificate - Paralegal Studies
South African Law School
Cape Town 2001.04 -
Higher Cerificate - Local Economic Development
University of Western Cape
Cape Town, South Africa 2001.04 -
Skills
Legal writing
Legal Analysis
Legal Research
Document drafting
File Organization
Client Communication
Document Scanning
Reception Management
Timeline
Paralegal Assistant
Legal Practice Council
2018.04 - 2018.12
Paralegal Intern
Legal Aid South Africa
2017.06 - 2018.01
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of South Africa
2001.04 -
Higher Certificate - Paralegal Studies
South African Law School
2001.04 -
Higher Cerificate - Local Economic Development
University of Western Cape
2001.04 -
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