Duty Counsel – Calgary

Who We Are

As a publicly funded, non-profit organization, Legal Aid Alberta provides affordable legal services in family law, domestic violence, child welfare, immigration, and youth and adult criminal defense. We are Alberta-wide, with 300 staff and 1,200 private practice lawyers helping people overcome their legal challenges in more than 75 communities across the province.

Who You Are

Working at Legal Aid Alberta means you care about people and empathize with their situations. You have excellent communication skills, especially in tough situations. You are an expert in criminal law and can advise clients on their rights and legal obligations in that area. You are a quick thinker, able to provide sound advice, and thrive in a fast-paced work environment. You have strong communication and interpersonal skills as well as enjoy learning new things and can adapt to change quickly. You care deeply about the success of our team and have a solid understanding of our organization’s mission and values

Job Description

Reporting to the Legal Services Manager, some of the key responsibilities include:

• Duty Counsel services in youth and adult criminal law, and family law
• Assessment services in youth and adult criminal law, and family law
• Work in specialty courts including Indigenous Courts or other specialty courts as required.
• Duty Counsel services in areas otherwise established by Legal Aid Alberta from time to time
• Travel to attend circuit courts as needed

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Law degree from a recognized law school.
• Member or eligible to be an active member in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta
• Some experience appearing in adult and youth criminal law and family law courts

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong interest and understanding of alternative court and restorative justice
• Experience acting as duty counsel through Legal Aid certificates is considered an asset
• An active member in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta
• Previous experience in JP Bail hearings, Protection Against Family Violence Act, Child Welfare, PChAD, immigration, and/or litigation practice is an asset
• Valid active Alberta Driver’s License

What We Offer

Perks of working with us

• Competitive wage
• RRSP with 8% employer contribution
• Health and dental benefits
• Health and wellness accounts
• Employee assistance program
• Weekends off
• Winter/Christmas closure (paid time off)

How To Apply

Click Apply Now. You can also send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Reference competition number [LAA-22-50]. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Requirements

The successful candidate will be required to provide an acceptable criminal record check.