Open to opportunities

Grace Sampson-Kadie

@gracesampson-kadie

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Experienced criminal defence attorney specializing in regional and district court litigation.

South Africa

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a litigation-focused role where I can lead courtroom work, mentor junior lawyers, handle complex criminal matters, and continue professional growth in a client-centered, justice-driven organisation.

I am a seasoned criminal and civil litigation attorney with over 15 years' experience at Legal Aid South Africa, progressing from Candidate Attorney to Regional Court Legal Practitioner. I have extensive courtroom experience across specialised courts, including Regional Courts, Sexual Offences, Bail, Domestic Violence and Backlog Courts, and I draft a wide range of court documents such as s112(2) pleas, s49G affidavits, bail affidavits and plea bargaining records.

I work independently and collaboratively, mentoring candidate practitioners while maintaining strong legal research, analytical, time-management and client-communication skills. I have a law degree (LL.B) from the University of the Western Cape and a proven record advising clients, representing accused persons, and staying current with case law and legislative amendments.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Regional Court Legal Practitioner

Legal Aid South Africa

Jan 2022 - Dec 2024 (2 years 11 months)

Represented clients in regional courts including sexual offences and minimum sentence matters, drafted advanced litigation documents and managed specialized court dockets.

Regional Court Litigation Sexual Offences

District Court Legal Practitioner

Legal Aid South Africa

Jan 2011 - Dec 2022 (11 years 11 months)

Practised criminal law in district courts, managed case preparation and court appearances, and mentored junior practitioners while improving analytical and time-management capabilities.

Analytical Thinking Legal Research Mentoring Court Representation

Candidate Attorney

Legal Aid South Africa

Jan 2008 - Dec 2010 (2 years 11 months)

Handled criminal and civil litigation matters, drafted court documents and represented clients in lower courts while developing litigation and legal research skills.

Litigation Legal Research Client Communication Time Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of the Western Cape

Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), Law

2004 - 2007

Completed an LL.B (Baccalaureus Legum) with study period 2004–2007 and graduation on 14 March 2008; placed on the Dean's Merit List.

Blackheath High School

Grade 12 (Matric), Secondary Education

Completed secondary education and obtained Grade 12 with subjects including English, Afrikaans, Physical Science, Mathematics, Biology, and Geography.