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In House Legal Counsel

Job ID42-43-97-E2-E0-E4
CompanyNative Child And Family Services Of Toronto
LocationToronto
ProvinceOntario
Date Posted2022-03-28
Posted Until2022-09-24
Job TypeFull-time
Job CategoryLaw
Description
Native Child and Family Services of Toronto is an Aboriginal, community controlled multi-service agency. Our mission is to provide support, ensure safety and enhance the quality of life for Aboriginal families, children, and youth within the greater Toronto area. Our agency works within a holistic framework, which builds on individual and family strengths, and engages clients as partners in identifying issues and their solutions.

Classification: Contract Fulltime (12months)
Hours: 35 hrs/wk.
Location: 30 College St.

NCFST is committed to staffing a workforce representative of the Aboriginal population we serve. We encourage First Nation, Metis and Inuit applicants to apply and please self-identify in their cover letter.

Position Summary
Under the direction of the Supervisor of Legal Services, the In House Legal Counsel will provide legal advice and representation to Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST) and its staff on matters pertaining to its child welfare mandate and activities, and related matters

Major Responsibilities
- The Legal Counsel will provide legal advice to NCFST staff on the interpretation and application of legislation pertaining to child well-being, family law, and related or ancillary matters;
- Negotiate settlements;
- Prepare cases for presentation in court by coordinating the gathering of all information and evidence, draft pleadings, assist workers to prepare affidavits and review same, briefs and other documents for filing with the court, and prepare witnesses;
- Present cases in the court on behalf of NCFST including trials;
- Represent NCFST on applications for disclosure of NCFST records in criminal, Child and Family Services Review Board, or other civil proceedings, and in expunction hearings under the Abuse Register;
- Participate in the presentation of training programs on legal matters and procedures for agency staff, foster parents and others;
- Document all legal issues, processes and case activities in accordance with established procedures.
- Other duties as required.

What we are looking for
- Law degree [LLB or JD] from a university of recognized standing.
- Member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario
- pass a vulnerable sector police records check
- at least two (2) years experience representing a Children's Aid Society, children or parents in Child, Youth and Family Service Act proceedings or with significant practice history in child welfare
- Additional assets include your knowledge and understanding of the unique dynamics that exist within the First Nation, Inuit, and Metis cultures;
- ability to work as a team member;
- excellent organizational, oral/verbal/written communication skills; ability to multitask and prioritize work demands; ability to analyse and problem solve; initiative, and respect for confidentiality.
- Demonstrated understanding, and commitment to, integrating the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto Mission and values in to practice, service and relationships.
- Demonstrated understanding of workplace Health and Safety practices and understanding of an employee's responsibility under current legislation.
- Ability to work effectively with all levels of staff, to maintain effective communication and working relationships, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, tact, sensitivity and build strong internal relationships.
- NCFST requires all employees, contractors, students, and volunteers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, absent of a valid medical exemption or other reasonable consideration pursuant to the Human Rights Code of Ontario.
LanguagesEnglish
How To ApplyClick "Apply Now"

If you are interested in this job opportunity, please apply by clicking APPLY HERE on or before April 8, 2022

We are committed to providing a barrier-free work environment in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. As such, NCFST will make accommodations available to applicants with disabilities upon request during the recruitment process.

We thank you for your interest, however, only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted