The Legal Secretary Course teaches you the skills needed to work in a legal office. You’ll learn how to manage legal documents, help lawyers with their work, and handle office tasks. This guide will explain how the course works, what you’ll study, how to qualify, and what jobs you can get.
Who Teaches the Legal Secretary Courses at Skills Academy?
The Legal Secretary Course is taught by skilled tutors with experience in legal administration. They help students understand how law offices work and what a legal secretary does. Their support makes learning easier and helps students gain confidence in their skills.
How Does the Legal Secretary Course Work?
This course has three levels: N4, N5, and N6. Each level builds on the one before, so your knowledge grows step by step. You’ll study subjects like Office Practice, Information Processing, and Legal Practice. To complete each level, you need to do assignments and exams.
Learn more about each level:
How Does the Legal Secretary Exam Work?
To pass the course, you must complete both assignments and exams. Assignments help you practise, and exams test what you know.
- Assignments
- Exams
Assignments
Each subject has three open-book assignments. You can do them at home, using your study materials. These assignments help you apply what you learn and prepare for your exams.
Exams
Exams are written twice a year, in May/June and October/November. They are set by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). You must register for exams in February or August to take part.
Find out more about how NATED courses and exams work.
knowledge is useful in any law office.
What Are the N5 Legal Secretary Modules?
The N5 level builds on what you learned in N4. It improves your communication skills and teaches more about legal procedures. You will study these subjects:
- Office Practice N5
- Communication N5
- Information Processing N5
- Legal Practice N5
Office Practice N5
This subject expands on office management skills. You will learn how to handle legal files, prepare court documents, and assist lawyers. These skills help you work efficiently in a legal office.
Communication N5
Good communication is important in law offices. This subject teaches you how to write legal letters, send professional emails, and speak clearly with clients. You will also learn how to handle private information.
Information Processing N5
At this level, you will improve your computer skills. You will practise advanced typing, working with spreadsheets, and creating professional documents. These skills help you stay organised.
Legal Practice N5
This subject covers more advanced legal topics. You will learn about court cases, different types of law, and legal procedures. This knowledge helps you assist lawyers better.
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What Are the N6 Legal Secretary Modules?
The N6 level is the last stage of the course. It prepares you for real work in a law office. You will study these subjects:
- Office Practice N6
- Legal Practice N6
- Information Processing N6
- Mercantile Law N6
Office Practice N6
This subject focuses on advanced office management. You will learn how to prepare legal contracts, manage case files, and assist lawyers in important tasks. These skills make you a valuable part of a legal team.
Legal Practice N6
Here, you’ll learn about complex legal procedures. You will study court systems, how cases are handled, and how to assist lawyers in preparing legal documents. This knowledge is essential for working in a legal office.
Information Processing N6
You will continue to build on your computer skills. This subject teaches you how to work with advanced legal documents, format reports, and manage digital files. These skills help you work faster and more accurately.
Mercantile Law N6
This subject covers business law in more detail. You will learn about financial agreements, company laws, and business transactions. These skills are useful if you want to work in corporate law firms.
What Training Does the Legal Secretary Course Provide?
This course gives you practical skills to work in a law office. You’ll learn how to handle legal paperwork, manage office tasks, and communicate with clients. These skills will help you succeed in your job.
- Professional communication
- Document preparation
- Legal office management
- Client relations
- Time management
Professional Communication
You will learn how to write legal documents, send emails, and prepare reports. The course teaches you how to communicate clearly with lawyers, clients, and court officials.
Document Preparation
Legal secretaries handle a lot of paperwork. This subject teaches you how to type and format legal contracts, court papers, and agreements correctly.
Legal Office Management
Managing an office is a big part of this job. You will learn how to organise case files, schedule meetings, and keep records.
Client Relations
Legal secretaries often deal with clients. You will learn how to answer questions, keep client information private, and help with legal paperwork.
Time Management
Legal work has strict deadlines. This subject teaches you how to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and stay organised.
What Qualities Does the Legal Secretary Course Help You Develop?
This course doesn’t just teach skills—it also helps you build key personal qualities that are important in a legal office.
- Patience
- Attention to detail
- Professionalism
- Problem-solving
Patience
Legal offices can be busy and stressful. This course helps you develop patience when dealing with deadlines, legal processes, and clients.
Attention to Detail
Legal paperwork must be correct. You will learn how to check documents carefully and avoid mistakes.
Professionalism
A legal secretary represents the law firm. This course teaches you how to dress, speak, and act professionally in a legal environment.
Problem-Solving
Unexpected problems happen in legal offices. This course helps you think quickly, find solutions, and assist lawyers effectively.
Is the Legal Secretary Course Hard?
The course is not difficult, but it requires effort. You will need to study, complete assignments, and prepare for exams. With good time management and support, students can complete it successfully.
What Are the Benefits of the Legal Secretary Course?
This course prepares you for a great career. You will gain valuable skills, increase your job opportunities, and have room for career growth.
- Better job opportunities
- Higher earning potential
- Work in different industries
- Opportunities for career growth
Better Job Opportunities
A legal secretary qualification helps you stand out when applying for jobs. Employers prefer candidates who understand legal office work.
Higher Earning Potential
Qualified legal secretaries can earn a good salary. Having the right skills makes you more valuable to employers.
Work in Different Industries
Legal secretaries can work in law firms, corporate offices, or government agencies. The skills you learn can be used in many workplaces.
Opportunities for Career Growth
With experience, you can move into senior positions like office manager or legal assistant.
Where Do I Study the Legal Secretary Course?
If you want to become a Legal Secretary, you need the right training. Skills Academy offers a flexible course that you can study from home. You get all the support you need while learning at your own pace.
What Are the Benefits of Distance Learning with Skills Academy?
Distance learning gives you freedom. You can study from anywhere and fit your studies around your daily life. Here’s why Skills Academy is a great choice:
- Your textbooks are included in the course fees
- You can study from anywhere in South Africa
- You get academic support whenever you need it
- You can pay your fees in monthly instalments
Your Textbooks Are Included in the Course Fees
No need to buy expensive books! Your textbooks and study materials are included in your course fees. This makes it easier to study without extra costs.
You Can Study from Anywhere in South Africa
It doesn’t matter where you live. You can study from home, whether you are in a big city or a small town. All your learning is done through distance learning, so you don’t need to travel.
You Get Academic Support Whenever You Need It
Studying at home doesn’t mean you are on your own. Tutors are available to help with questions, assignments, and understanding the work. You’ll always have support to keep you on track.
You Can Pay Your Fees in Monthly Instalments
Education should be affordable. You don’t have to pay everything at once. You can pay in small amounts each month, making it easier to manage your budget.
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Why Should I Study the Legal Secretary Course?
A Legal Secretary is an important part of any law office. This course teaches you how to manage legal documents, help lawyers, and organise office tasks. If you want a stable job with good career opportunities, this is a great choice.
What Are the Legal Secretary Course Requirements?
If you want to become a Legal Secretary, you need to meet a few requirements. The course is taught in English, so you should be able to read, write, and speak the language. You also need a matric certificate or an equivalent qualification to start the NATED Legal Secretary Courses.
What Skills Do You Need to Study the Legal Secretary Course?
To do well in this course, you need a few important skills. These skills will help you complete your studies and prepare you for working in a law office.
- Ability to speak and write in English
- Basic computer skills
- Good organisation skills
- Attention to detail
Ability to Speak and Write in English
Since the course is in English, you need to understand the language. You will learn how to write legal letters, contracts, and other documents. Good communication is important in a legal office.
Basic Computer Skills
Legal secretaries use computers every day. You need to type documents, send emails, and use office software. This course helps you improve your computer skills.
Good Organisation Skills
A law office can be very busy. You must organise files, book appointments, and prepare legal documents. This course teaches you how to manage office tasks.
Attention to Detail
Legal paperwork must be correct. A small mistake can cause big problems. You will learn how to check legal documents carefully and make sure they are accurate.
What Qualifications Do I Need to Be a Legal Secretary?
To work as a Legal Secretary, you need the right training. The NATED Legal Secretary Courses give you the skills and knowledge to do the job well. You also need 18 months of practical work experience to earn a National Diploma.
| Course | Short Course Description | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| N4 Legal Secretary Course | Learn office management, legal procedures, and document preparation. | Matric or equivalent qualification |
| N5 Legal Secretary Course | Gain deeper knowledge of legal office tasks and legal communication. | N4 Legal Secretary Certificate |
| N6 Legal Secretary Course | Focuses on advanced legal office skills and workplace readiness. | N5 Legal Secretary Certificate |
The NATED Legal Secretary Programme is split into three levels: N4, N5, and N6. Each level takes 12 months to complete. After finishing all three levels and completing 18 months of work experience, you will earn a National Diploma in Legal Secretary.
Can I Study Legal Secretary Without Matric?
To start the N4 Legal Secretary Course, you must have matric or an equivalent qualification. If you don’t have matric, you can first study an office administration course that does not require matric. Another option is to complete your matric through distance learning before enrolling in the Legal Secretary Course.
How Do I Get My Matric to Enrol in the Legal Secretary Course?
If you don’t have matric, you can still earn your certificate through Skills Academy’s matric courses. These courses are designed for adults who want to complete their matric qualification.
- Adult Matric
- Matric Rewrite
- Matric Upgrade
Adult Matric
This course is for adults who never finished high school. You can complete your matric and get a recognised qualification. All studying is done from home, and exams are written through the Department of Basic Education.
Matric Rewrite
If you wrote matric before but didn’t pass, you can rewrite your exams. This option helps you improve your marks and qualify for further studies. You can rewrite as many subjects as you need.
Matric Upgrade
If you passed matric but want better marks, you can upgrade your results. This helps if you need higher marks to meet the entry requirements for a specific course. You can choose which subjects to improve.
Now that you know how to get your matric, you can take the next step toward becoming a Legal Secretary.
How Do I Apply to Study the Legal Secretary Course?
Applying for the Legal Secretary Course is simple. You can register online or speak to a course expert for help. Follow these steps to start your journey.
- Choose the Legal Secretary Course you want to study
- Contact a course expert for help
- Submit your application
- Get confirmation and receive your study materials
Choose the Legal Secretary Course You Want to Study
Before applying, decide which Legal Secretary Course suits your goals. The NATED Legal Secretary Programme has three levels: N4, N5, and N6. You need to complete them in order to earn your National Diploma.
Contact a Course Expert for Help
If you’re unsure about which course to take, speak to a course expert. They can guide you through the entry requirements and help you choose the right level. You can contact them online or by phone.
Submit Your Application
Once you’ve decided, you can submit your application. This can be done online or by phone. Double-check your details to avoid delays.
Get Confirmation and Receive Your Study Materials
After your application is approved, you will receive confirmation. Your study materials will be delivered to you, so you can start studying right away.
When to Register for the Legal Secretary Course at Skills Academy?
You can register for the Legal Secretary Course at any time. Skills Academy offers open enrolment, so you don’t have to wait for a new semester to begin. You can start as soon as you are ready.
How Does the Legal Secretary Course Certification Work?
When you finish your N4, N5, and N6 Legal Secretary Courses, you will receive a National Certificate for each level. After completing all three courses and 18 months of practical work experience, you will earn a National Diploma. This qualification proves that you have the skills to work as a Legal Secretary.
Is the Legal Secretary Course Accredited?
Yes, this course is fully accredited. The NATED Legal Secretary Courses are approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). Your qualification will be recognised across South Africa.
How Many Years to Study Legal Secretary?
Becoming a Legal Secretary takes time, but the course is designed to make learning easy. Each NATED Legal Secretary Course takes 12 months to complete. After finishing all three levels, you must do 18 months of work experience to qualify for your National Diploma.
- N4 Legal Secretary Course – 12 months
- N5 Legal Secretary Course – 12 months
- N6 Legal Secretary Course – 12 months
N4 Legal Secretary Course – 12 Months
The N4 course is your first step toward becoming a Legal Secretary. You will learn about office management, legal documents, and basic legal procedures. This level takes one year to complete.
N5 Legal Secretary Course – 12 Months
The N5 course builds on what you learned in N4. You will cover more advanced legal tasks, including legal communication and case file management. Like N4, this course takes one year to complete.
N6 Legal Secretary Course – 12 Months
The N6 course prepares you for real legal work. You will learn about advanced legal administration, office supervision, and detailed legal procedures. This is the final course and takes one year to complete.
Once you finish all three levels, you must complete 18 months of work experience to earn your National Diploma in Legal Secretary. This hands-on training gives you real experience in the legal field before you start working.
What Career Opportunities Are Available with the Legal Secretary Course?
A Legal Secretary plays an important role in the legal field. This course gives you the skills to work in different places, from law firms to corporate offices. With the right training, you can find a stable and rewarding job.
Where Can a Legal Secretary Work?
Legal secretaries are needed in many industries. They help lawyers, manage paperwork, and keep offices running smoothly. Here are some places where you can work:
- Law Firms
- Corporate Legal Departments
- Government Offices
- Financial Institutions
- Real Estate Companies
Law Firms
Most legal secretaries work in law firms. Here, you will prepare legal documents, schedule meetings, and organise case files. You will also assist lawyers in handling client matters.
Corporate Legal Departments
Big companies have legal departments to handle contracts and legal paperwork. As a Legal Secretary, you will assist legal teams with reports, agreements, and compliance. Your role helps businesses follow legal rules.
Government Offices
Government institutions, such as courts and legal aid offices, need Legal Secretaries. You will help lawyers with case preparation, manage legal records, and handle public inquiries.
Financial Institutions
Banks and insurance companies also employ legal secretaries. You will work with contracts, financial agreements, and compliance documents. This role ensures legal accuracy in financial transactions.
Real Estate Companies
Property sales and rentals involve legal documents. A Legal Secretary in real estate helps prepare lease agreements, contracts, and transfer papers. Your job is to make sure all legal requirements are met.
What Does a Legal Secretary Do?
A Legal Secretary supports lawyers and legal teams with office tasks. Their job involves handling legal documents, organising schedules, and assisting clients. Below are some key duties:
- Drafting Legal Documents
- Managing Schedules and Appointments
- Communicating with Clients
- Filing and Organising Case Records
- Handling Confidential Information
Drafting Legal Documents
Legal secretaries prepare contracts, affidavits, and other legal paperwork. They type, proofread, and ensure that all documents meet legal standards. Accuracy is essential in this role.
Managing Schedules and Appointments
Lawyers have busy schedules, and legal secretaries help manage their time. They arrange meetings, set up court dates, and ensure deadlines are met. Keeping an organised calendar is a big part of this job.
Communicating with Clients
Legal secretaries often act as the first point of contact for clients. They answer calls, respond to emails, and provide updates on legal matters. Good communication skills are needed to handle client inquiries professionally.
Filing and Organising Case Records
A well-organised filing system is important in a law office. Legal secretaries maintain case records, organise files, and ensure that documents are easy to access. They help lawyers stay prepared for cases.
Handling Confidential Information
Legal matters are sensitive, and legal secretaries must keep information private. They ensure that client details, contracts, and case notes are handled securely. Professionalism and trust are key in this role.
What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Legal Secretary?
A Legal Secretary needs both office and legal skills. Good communication is important, as you will interact with lawyers, clients, and other professionals. You also need strong organisational skills to manage documents, schedules, and case files.
Is Legal Secretary a Good Career?
Being a Legal Secretary is a great career choice. It offers job stability and opportunities for growth. Many legal secretaries move into higher positions, such as paralegal or legal assistant roles.
Is It Hard to Be a Legal Secretary?
This job can be challenging, but it is rewarding. You must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. With proper training and practice, you can handle the demands of this career with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to become a Legal Secretary, the best course is the NATED Legal Secretary Programme. It includes N4, N5, and N6 levels, each helping you build your skills in legal administration. Once you complete all three levels and 18 months of work experience, you can earn a National Diploma in Legal Secretary.
Yes! You do not need maths to study the Legal Secretary Course. To enrol in N4 Legal Secretary, you need a matric certificate or an equivalent qualification. If you don’t have matric, you can complete your Adult Matric or Matric Upgrade to qualify.
A Legal Secretary helps lawyers with important office tasks. They prepare legal documents, arrange meetings, and handle client communication. Their role keeps a law office running smoothly and ensures that legal work stays organised.
Author : Jodie Jacob
