Counsel (Litigation) at Wemimo Ogunde & Co.

Location: Ilupeju, Lagos

Job Description

• We are seeking intelligent, motivated and vibrant young lawyers willing to build a thriving legal career within our firm.
• We kindly request that you read the job description and requirements below to make sure this is the right job for you.
• If you believe you have what it takes, we will be very happy to hear from you.

Duties
The Counsel will work under the supervision of the Principal Counsel to carry out the following duties:

• Participate in client briefing meeting to decide the best options for each client (settlement, mediation, arbitration or litigation);
• Participate in strategy meetings and prepare case analysis/opinions on the strengths and weaknesses of each matter;
• Carry out legal research required to prepare the necessary processes or as directed by the supervisor;
• Assist in the preparation of processes in relation to matter handled by the firm;
• Attend proceedings ( either alone or with a supervisor) in respect of matters handled by the firm;
• Participate in settlement meetings as may be required or deemed necessary under certain circumstances;
• Prepare update letters and promptly communicate with clients on the status of their matter;
• Write articles and newsletters periodically on topics relevant to the practice areas of the firm;
• Participate in legal events as may be organized by the firm from time to time; and
• Carry out all other duties as may be related to the above scope as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements
We are looking for lawyers who possess the following:

• Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) - Minimum of a Second Class (Upper Division).
• BL - Minimum of a Second Class (Lower Division) from the Nigerian Law School.
• First degree in a field other than law is also an added advantage;
• 1-2 years’ core litigation experience in a good law firm;
• Strong research and analytical skills;
• Sound command of English language (oral and written) and good proofreading skills;
• Familiarity with the court system, filing and procedure in Nigeria (particularly in Lagos High Court divisions and Federal High Court divisions);
• Good understanding of the rules of various courts and the drafting court processes (for instance, statement of claim, writ of summons etc.) (particularly in Lagos High Court divisions and Federal High Court divisions);
• Ability to think creatively in a confident manner;
• Attention to detail and ability to follow a process to completion;
• Ability to identify key legal issues quickly and efficiently;
• Ability to write articles, newsletters and other thought leadership publications; and
• Ability to use Microsoft applications.