Chidothe, Chidothe & Company is looking for a Legal Practitioner to join our team.
Job Summary
- Employer: Chidothe, Chidothe & Company
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Blantyre, Malawi
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct court proceedings and represent clients
- Draft pleadings, affidavits, submissions, contracts and legal correspondence
- Conduct legal research and provide legal advice
- Manage client files and monitor court deadlines
- Handle negotiations, settlements and other legal matters
Requirements
- Admitted Legal Practitioner in Malawi
- Valid practising licence
- At least 2 years’ post-admission experience
- Minimum 2 years’ experience appearing in court and able to conduct court proceedings independently
- Strong advocacy, legal drafting and research skills
- Good knowledge of civil and criminal practice and procedure
- Excellent communication, professionalism and ability to work with minimum supervision
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a legal practitioner at a firm like Chidothe, Chidothe & Company in Malawi?
You must hold an LLB degree from a recognized university and complete a one-year practical training program at the Malawi Law School. After passing the Bar examinations, you must be admitted to the Bar and obtain a practicing certificate from the Malawi Law Society.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a lawyer at a Malawian law firm?
Daily tasks include legal research, drafting contracts and court documents, client consultations, and representing clients in magistrate and High Court proceedings. You will also attend court hearings, conduct due diligence, and provide legal opinions on various matters affecting clients.
How does the work culture differ at established law firms in Malawi compared to international firms?
Malawian firms typically emphasize hierarchical respect, long working hours during active litigation periods, and strong personal relationships with clients. There is often less formal specialization than in international firms, requiring lawyers to handle diverse practice areas including land, family, and commercial law.
What career progression opportunities exist for lawyers starting at a mid-sized firm in Malawi?
Junior associates typically advance to senior associate after 3-5 years of consistent performance and business development. Partnership track depends on bringing in clients, demonstrating expertise, and contributing to firm growth, with some lawyers eventually establishing their own practices.
What benefits should I expect when working as a lawyer at a Malawian law firm?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave as prescribed by the Employment Act, limited medical coverage, and participation in the National Pension Scheme. Larger or more established firms may offer additional benefits such as professional development allowances and malpractice insurance coverage.
What do employers like Chidothe, Chidothe & Company look for when hiring new lawyers?
Employers prioritize candidates with strong academic records, demonstrated moot court or litigation experience, and fluency in English and Chichewa for client interaction. They also value integrity, willingness to work in diverse practice areas, and connections to the local community that could generate future clientele.