Counsel (Litigation and Arbitration) at Wemimo Ogunde & Co.

Wemimo Ogunde & Co. is a leading full service law firm in Nigeria consistently commended for its ability to handle and resolve complex and sophisticated matters in the simplest and most efficient manner. At Wemimo Ogunde & Co, we understand that our clients do not need the legalese, so we cut it out and go straight to the point.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Counsel (Litigation and Arbitration)

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The Counsel will work under the supervision of a Senior Counsel to carry out the following duties:

Participate in client briefing meetings 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 matters 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 matters;
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). We will only accept lower classes if you are able to prove extenuating circumstances in your motivation letter.
BL – Minimum of a Second Class (Lower Division) from the Nigerian Law School. We will only accept lower classes if you are able to prove extenuating circumstances in your motivation letter.
Masters’ degree is an added advantage;
First degree in a field other than law is also an added advantage;
1-4 years’ core litigation experience in a good law firm;
Strong research and analytical skills;
Sound command of English language (oral and written);
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 write articles, newsletters and other thought leadership publications;
Ability to use Microsoft applications; and
Ability to identify key legal issues quickly and efficiently.