Gender and Justice Unit (GJU)
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
The Gender and Justice Unit (GJU) is a women-centred and women-led organisation based in Lilongwe, Malawi, working to advance gender equality through legal empowerment, access to justice, and advocacy for the rights of women and girls.
With financial support from Trócaire, GJU is implementing the EmpowerSafe Project in Dedza District, an integrated access-to-justice initiative combining legal clinics, mobile courts, community paralegals, psychosocial support, and the EmpowerLine Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system to improve responses to gender-based violence (GBV).
GJU invites applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates for the following positions:
LEGAL OFFICER – GBV RESPONSE
Location: Lilongwe (with frequent travel to Dedza District)
Contract Type: Project-based (12 months, with possibility of extension subject to funding)
Reports to: Legal Coordinator (day-to-day); Project Lawyer (technical supervision)
Role Summary
The Legal Officer – GBV Response provides frontline legal support to survivors of gender-based violence and coordinates GBV case management from EmpowerLine referrals through court processes. The role also supports day-to-day coordination of the Trócaire – EmpowerSafe project activities, including supervision of Paralegal Officers and community paralegals, ensuring survivor-centred, ethical, and effective service delivery.
Key Responsibilities include:
- GBV case intake, documentation, court preparation, and survivor accompaniment
- Coordination of legal clinics and mobile court sessions with WOJAM and justice actors
- Supervision and mentorship of Paralegal Officers and community paralegals
- Case management using GJU systems (including CasePlus)
- Contribution to legal research, advocacy inputs, and policy analysis
- Upholding safeguarding, confidentiality, and survivor-centred principles across all activities
Required Qualifications & Experience
- LLB degree from a recognised institution
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in legal aid, GBV response, or access to justice
- Strong knowledge of Malawian GBV, family, and criminal law
- Demonstrated trauma-informed practice and strong documentation skills
- PARALEGAL OFFICER (DEDZA-BASED)
Location: Dedza District
Contract Type: Project-based (12 months, with possibility of extension subject to funding)
Reports to: Legal Officer – GBV Response / Project Lawyer
Role Summary
The Paralegal Officer will provide direct legal support to GBV survivors in Dedza District, facilitate community legal clinics, support mobile court operations, and coordinate with community liaisons to strengthen access to justice at community level under the EmpowerSafe Project.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Providing legal advice and support to GBV survivors
- Facilitating community legal clinics and EmpowerLine demonstrations
- Supporting mobile court sessions and court preparation
- Coordinating and mentoring community liaisons
- Maintaining accurate case records and contributing to project reporting
- Supporting referrals to psychosocial and protection services
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Diploma in Law, Paralegal Studies, or related field
- At least 2 years’ experience in paralegal work or legal aid provision
- Experience working with GBV survivors and rural communities
- Fluency in Chichewa and working knowledge of English
- Paralegal certification recognised by the Legal Aid Bureau is an advantage
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- A cover letter detailing their motivation and suitability
- A detailed CV with at least three traceable referees
- Copies of academic and professional certificates
Email: info@genderandjustice.org
Subject Line: Application – Position Title
Deadline: 23 January 2026
Safeguarding Statement
GJU is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable adults. All staff, consultants, and partners are expected to adhere to GJU’s Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct. Successful candidates will be required to sign the Code of Conduct and safeguarding policy and may be subject to background checks. Any form of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment is strictly prohibited.