We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Legal Bookkeeper to join a professional legal practice. The successful candidate will be responsible for the accurate processing and control of both business and trust accounts, ensuring compliance with legal and statutory requirements, while supporting management and auditors with financial reporting and audit preparation.

This is a hands-on role suited to a candidate who thrives in a structured, deadline-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities Bookkeeping & Accounting

• Full bookkeeping function for business and trust accounts up to Trial Balance
• Day-end and month-end processing
• Preparation of Management Accounts
• Business bank reconciliations across major banks
• Posting of journals, EFTs, and fees
• Year-end journal processing
• General Ledger reconciliations
• Trust interest and charge reconciliations
• Creditor reconciliations
• Processing and management of Section 86(4) investments
• VAT reconciliations and submissions
• BEE annual compilation assistance
• SASSETA compilation and online submissions
• Preparation of audit files for:
  • Statutory financial audits
  • Annual Attorney Trust Audits
• Liaising with external auditors and providing supporting documentation
• Ensuring statutory and regulatory compliance

Payroll & HR Administration

• Processing payroll on Sage Pastel Payroll
• PAYE submissions
• EMP201 returns and UIF electronic declarations
• EMP501 bi-annual and annual submissions
• Annual COIDA returns
• Basic HR administration, including leave records and employment documentation

Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Accounting (Diploma or Degree)
• Minimum 3+ years’ experience in a Senior Bookkeeper role
• Previous legal firm experience highly advantageous
• Strong understanding of trust accounting and legal compliance
• Experience with Lawpac and Sage Payroll beneficial
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Strong organisational and communication skills

Key Skills

• Trust Accounting
• Trial Balance
• Bank Reconciliations
• VAT Submissions
• Payroll Processing
• Sage Pastel Payroll
• Lawpac
• Financial Reporting
• Audit Preparation
• Legal Compliance
• General Ledger Reconciliations
• EMP201 & EMP501
• COIDA & UIF
• Management Accounts