Litigation Apprenticeship (6-Month)

Litigation Apprenticeship — D.L. & F. de Saram (Kandy)

D.L. & F. de Saram offers a 6-month paid apprenticeship in its litigation practice, based in Kandy. This apprenticeship is designed for law graduates seeking to complete their mandatory BASL apprenticeship while gaining courtroom experience in Sri Lanka's Central Province courts.

The apprentice will observe and assist with civil and criminal litigation, property disputes, and commercial cases at the District Court of Kandy, the Provincial High Court, and the Magistrate's Court. Kandy offers unique exposure to Kandyan law — a distinctive body of customary law governing property, succession, and marriage in the Kandyan Provinces — alongside standard Roman-Dutch civil procedure under the Civil Procedure Code.

• Attend and observe court proceedings at the District Court of Kandy and Provincial High Court
• Assist Attorneys-at-Law with preparation of pleadings, motions, and submissions
• Research legal issues under the Civil Procedure Code, Evidence Ordinance, and Kandyan Law
• Draft basic legal documents including affidavits, proxies, and court applications
• Accompany senior lawyers to client consultations and case conferences
• Maintain case files and assist with court scheduling and compliance deadlines

• LL.B. from a recognised Sri Lankan university, preferably University of Peradeniya or equivalent
• Eligible for the mandatory 6-month BASL apprenticeship under the Judicature Act
• Strong interest in litigation and courtroom advocacy
• Good academic performance in civil procedure, criminal law, and evidence law
• Interest in Kandyan law and customary legal traditions
• Sinhala fluency required; English proficiency essential
• Based in or willing to relocate to Kandy for the full 6 months