Job Title

Overview 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 is an opportunity to help people who need it the most and to ensure each client receives access to justice under the law. If you are seeking a new challenge in a meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment, consider this opportunity. Position : Primary function To provide criminal duty counsel services in Hamilton. Duty Counsel is responsible for client service for criminal law matters at the Hamilton courthouse and attendance in person at the Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre. The position is designated in-person, with virtual appearances as required by operational needs. Responsibilities include intake and assessment of unrepresented adult and youth clients to determine appropriate services, including providing procedural and summary legal advice; drafting and reviewing criminal court documents; and in-court representation at various stages of criminal proceedings. Location : Home Position Hamilton Criminal Courthouse. Secondary/tertiary locations may include the Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre. May be required to appear remotely in other Duty Counsel Offices across the Central West or other jurisdictions as needed. Reports to: Manager of Legal Services. Key Accountabilities Assisting unrepresented clients charged with criminal matters Representing clients at bail hearings, guilty pleas and remands both in-person and remotely Assessing clients needs, including early identification of vulnerable clients, to facilitate referrals to appropriate services Providing in-person and remote summary legal advice to clients in or out of custody, including at the Hamilton Wentworth Detention Centre Assisting colleagues in preparation of bail hearings, guilty pleas and other forms of resolution Assisting in Judicial Pre Trials When appropriate, representing clients in Crown pre-trial negotiations for purposes of resolution Representing clients in specialty courts such as Drug Treatment Court, Mental Health, Gladue, Domestic Violence, and Youth Courts as required Ensuring a high quality of legal work in a cost-effective manner File management as per LAO requirements including use of computer technology and timely data entry for statistics Punctual attendance at court to perform daily duties Providing assistance with legal aid referrals as required Facilitating knowledge-sharing and best practices among court locations and staff offices Perform other duties and administrative tasks as assigned; remain adaptable in a changing environment Building and maintaining stakeholder relations Attending stakeholder meetings on behalf of Legal Aid Ontario as required Required Skills & Experience Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario Demonstrated experience representing clients with complex legal issues including conducting bail hearings and guilty pleas Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, criminal law procedures, rules of evidence and related case law Practical understanding of the Rules of Professional Conduct Communication, presentation and negotiation skills coupled with strong advocacy skills in the Ontario Court of Justice Proven judgment and analytical ability to determine appropriate legal remedies Knowledge and appreciation of the impact of criminal proceedings on immigration, family and other poverty law issues; and the integrated nature of legal issues faced by LAO clients Proven experience providing excellent client service to vulnerable populations (youth, racialized communities, Indigenous peoples, and those experiencing mental health or addiction challenges and/or homelessness) Ability to work independently and unsupervised in a fast-paced environment while also collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders Proficiency in computer-based file management and data entry systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, DCSW) and Microsoft Office Ability to use modern communication technologies including tablets, smartphones and video conferencing platforms (Zoom/Teams) to deliver services virtually Preferred Skills Bilingual French fluency is preferred; fluency in other languages will be considered an asset What do we offer? Legal Aid Ontario offers a supportive and rewarding work environment with a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance professional and personal well-being. Benefits include health and wellness programs with dental, health and life insurance, Basic Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, and Short-Term Disability (STD). We provide a generous paid time-off policy (vacation, sick days, discretionary days, statutory holidays) and PSPP enrollment (Ontario Pension Board). Application Process & Equity To apply submit a cover letter and rsum. Only candidates selected for an interview will be notified. Final candidates will undergo a criminal record check. This position is represented by The Society of United Professionals; the employee will be governed by the collective agreement with dues deducted bi-weekly from date of hire. First preference given to current members of the Society of United Professionals. Please provide a valid email address for communication purposes. Applicants may receive correspondence to the email on their resume or Candidate Profile. New applicants: create a profile and apply. Returning applicants: sign in and apply. After applying, you will receive a confirmation email. For application assistance, call 1-877-427-7717 or email . Equity & Inclusion Equity Statement: Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve is a core value at LAO. We encourage applicants from equity-seeking groups and all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code. LAO values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Direct accommodation requests to our recruitment team. #J-18808-Ljbffr