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

• Assessment of clients’ needs, including the early identification of vulnerable clients, to facilitate referrals to appropriate services.
• To act as Family Duty Counsel by providing representation in the Ontario Court of Justice (OCJ) at first appearances, conferences, motions, negotiations, Family Responsibility Office (FRO) matters, Children’s Aid Society matters (i.e. Place of Safety hearings) and other family court hearings and services as required, currently including Superior Court of Justice Case Conference pilot program.
• Provide summary legal advice to clients on family law and child protection matters and procedures, both virtually and in person, and acting as the Advice Lawyer in the Family Law Advice Clinics offered through FLSC and at Domestic Violence Shelters.
• Provide oral and written advocacy on behalf of clients. This includes providing advice and representation to persons appearing in court without counsel on the court docket and assisting in obtaining adjournments as required.
• Representation at procedural and non-complex motions.
• Attendance and representation at conferences in matters dealing with issues of custody, access, support, child protection, support enforcement and other family law matters.
• Review court documents and assist in drafting pleadings and other documents.
• Oversee the administration and application of financial eligibility tests in accordance with LAO policy and ensuring high quality legal work in a cost effective manner.
• Provide family law services in the Ontario Court of Justice and the Superior Court of Justice.
• Offer Enhanced Duty Counsel Services as per LAO Guidelines.
• Act as counsel of record for certificate eligible clients, including clients unable to secure private bar lawyers as needed.
• Assist the Manager of the FLSCs in the administration of the FLSC office, including coordination of family law services and ensuring adequate resources are allocated to various courts and clinics.
• Maintain conflict lists, record data and produce reports as required.
• Ensure high quality of legal work in a cost effective manner.
• Perform other duties and administrative tasks as assigned and remain adaptable and flexible in a changing environment.

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
• Client focused with personal motivation and accountability.
• Ability to work independently, with limited supervision, and to lead in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment and problem solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to provide sensitive and compassionate client service to those who may be victims of domestic violence.
• Ability to work as a team with other Legal Aid Workers, Staff Lawyers, Per Diem Duty Counsel and Managers.
• Intermediate level skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint and other office applications. Experience with DivorceMate, Legal Files and PeopleSoft is an asset.
• Demonstrated research skills
• Demonstrated ability to use latest communication technologies including tablets and smartphones and ability to utilize video conferencing platforms in order to deliver services virtually.
• Access to vehicle or ability to rent a vehicle is preferred as this position requires travel to and from Court
• Ability to communicate in French is an asset.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Prior family and CYFSA law experience and/or experience handling complex family legal issues.
• Demonstrated interest in indigenous legal issues.
• Experience practicing law as a family duty counsel or lawyer including providing advice, summary advice, mediation, settlement conferences, trials etc.
• Sound knowledge of Legal Aid Services Act and Regulations, its operations and mandate.
• Training or advocacy experience in relation to mental health issues

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