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Thabang Smata

@thabangsmata

Law graduate at Rhodes University Law Clinic who drafted court pleadings and researched civil, family, and property matters.

South Africa

Message

What I'm looking for

I'm looking to deliver value in a corporate law firm, financial institution, tax consultancy, or compliance division.

At Rhodes University Law Clinic, I conducted client intake consultations under supervisor direction and assessed legal merits. I earned 78% in the practical legal clinic module.

I drafted pleadings, affidavits, notices of motion, legal correspondence, and settlement agreements across civil, family, and property matters.

I researched statutes, precedents, and court rules using JutaStat and LexisNexis to prepare opinion memorandums. My legal studies have focused on commercial law, tax law, banking law, and alternative dispute resolution.

At Rhodes University, I also scored 74% in Moot Court and served as Executive Secretary of the Nhlalala ya Vatsonga Cultural Society. I hold a BA in Journalism and am completing an LLB at Rhodes University.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Selection Panel Member

Calata House Residence, Rhodes University

Jan 2023 - Dec 2023 (11 months)

Served on the official interview and selection board to evaluate applicants for residence sub-warden leadership roles, assessing candidate merit, leadership potential, and crisis management capabilities.

Interviewing Candidate Evaluation Leadership Assessment Crisis Management

Student Legal Clinician / Intern

Rhodes University Law Clinic

Conducted client intake consultations, drafted court pleadings and affidavits, and performed legal research using JutaStat and LexisNexis. Managed client files and ensured compliance with legal ethics and confidentiality protocols.

Legal Research Client intake Pleading drafting Affidavits Notice Of Motion Legal Correspondence Settlement Agreements Jutastat LexisNexis File Management Legal Ethics Confidentiality

Executive Secretary

Nhlalala ya Vatsonga Cultural Society

Managed official society correspondence, recorded executive meeting minutes, coordinated event logistics, and maintained membership records.

Administrative Support Correspondence Management Meeting Minutes Event Coordination Record keeping

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Rhodes University

Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Law

Activities and societies: Law Clinic Practical Module (78% Distinction), Moot Court Advocacy (74%), ADR (70%)

Pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with specialized electives in Tax Law, Banking Law, and Alternative Dispute Resolution, expected completion in 2026.