Manager, Investigations

at  Legal Aid Ontario

COMPANY BIO

Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients.
As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It’s an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law.
If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Direct and manage the daily operations of the Investigations Department, managing a five-member team of senior investigators and support staff
• Maintain knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Legal Aid Services Act and its Regulations, Canadian Criminal Code, and The General Terms and Conditions for Panel Lawyers. Must be familiar with tribunal, and courtroom procedures, which includes Criminal, Family and Refugee Law matters
• Keep up to date on new investigative methods and developments in fraud investigation
• Ensure timely completion of investigations with respect to client, lawyer and LAO internal matters
• Examine referrals from staff, Panel lawyers, clients and other members of the public to determine if the matter referred to the Department falls within the mandate of the Department’ Policy with respect to investigations on Panel lawyers, Legal Aid applicants/clients and internal staff investigation matters
• Determine the scope of investigation before proceeding with a case.
• Ensure factual and objective data or documentation is gathered to either substantiate or refute the allegation. This may include interviewing clients, lawyers, general public, reviewing billing of accounts and other relevant data or documentation held by LAO
• Analyze data of varying complexity to discern suspicious patterns indicative of fraudulent or improper billing
• Analyze the case facts objectively to determine whether fraudulent behavior has occurred or whether the billing issue is simple an error
• Identify issues and make recommendations for systemic improvement in internal controls with respect to the online billing
• Regularly report to the Director on the progress of investigations
• Update management on all investigative matters, including. lawyer discipline matters with LSUC and complaints made by the public or client with respect to a Panel lawyer
• Work closely with all Departments ensuring the proper sharing of information where applicable
• The Manager acts as the designate for the VP Strategic Planning and Compliance in reporting Roster Lawyers, Law Society of Ontario ( LSO)
• Liaise with law enforcement agencies as required.
• Where applicable prepare briefs and other reports for Crown attorneys, LSO or Director Generals
• Testify at LSO discipline hearings and Criminal or Civil Court on issues relating to lawyer/client fraud and other matters which may include civil law suits brought against LAO

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Minimum 5 years of management experience, of which at least 3 years have to be in the area of managing an investigative program and supervising an investigation team

• Extensive senior investigator experience (5-7 years) with a focus on fraud investigations
• Experience in providing advice and guidance to others on conducting investigations
• Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills, experience conducting executive briefings
• Demonstrated strong investigative skills
• Strong consulting and mediation skills
• Excellent interviewing and fact gathering skills
• Member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) would be an asset

Knowledge & Interpersonal Attributes:

• Expert knowledge of investigative techniques, policies and procedures
• Working knowledge of privacy and human rights legislation as it pertains to investigative procedures
• Working knowledge of the Legal Aid Services Act and its Regulation, Canadian Criminal Code, Law Society Act, Tariff Billing Handbook
• Tact, diplomacy, good judgement

EQUITY STATEMENT

Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a safe culture and work environment that dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team.

Please refer the Job description for details