The South African Revenue Service (SARS)
Job Opportunity: Specialist: Legal (Customs & Excise)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Job Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: 13 February 2026
About the South African Revenue Service (SARS)
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is the national authority responsible for collecting taxes and managing customs services. Established as an independent agency, our mission is to collect all national taxes and duties to ensure the economic growth and social development of South Africa.
Role Purpose
We are seeking a Legal Specialist to manage litigation and pre-litigation processes regarding customs and excise disputes in the Higher Courts. In this role, you will handle the entire legal lifecycle, from researching tax principles and analyzing case merits to reviewing court documents and attending hearings. A key part of the job involves resolving issues early to prevent unnecessary court cases through effective legal notices and negotiations.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare complex legal cases for the Magistrate’s Court, High Court, and the Supreme Court of Appeal.
- Conduct settlement negotiations with taxpayers and their legal representatives.
- Provide expert legal advice to internal departments and external stakeholders.
- Research legal and tax principles to support the organization’s position.
- Review pleadings, heads of argument, and other court documents drafted by counsel.
- Identify risks and ensure all legal activities follow internal governance and compliance policies.
- Analyze current systems and suggest improvements to legal procedures and practices.
- Monitor costs and manage financial controls within the legal department.
Requirements
Education and Experience:
- A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree is required.
- Must be an admitted Attorney or Advocate.
- 8 to 10 years of experience in a legal or tax environment.
- At least 3 to 4 years of experience at a specialist or operational level.
- Specific experience in Customs, Excise, or International Trade litigation is highly preferred.
Required Skills and Competencies
Technical Skills:
- In-depth knowledge of court processes and legal procedures.
- Strong legal writing and interpretation skills.
- Ability to analyze data and report on legal trends.
- Strong understanding of legal ethics and compliance.
Behavioral Attributes:
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
- Commitment to honesty, integrity, and transparency.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work independently and take accountability for results.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and are interested in joining our team, please submit your application through the official SARS careers portal. Ensure your CV highlights your relevant experience in customs and excise litigation.