About this role
This position provides advanced paralegal, legal drafting, litigation support and document development services to Legal Counsel and Agency staff. The position prepares complex court materials and litigation support documents under the direction of Legal Counsel, assists in maintaining legal drafting standards and precedents, and supports the efficient delivery of legal services. This position also represents the Society at administrative tribunals where authorized and appropriate and provides legal advice and support on tribunal matters as appropriate.
*MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES*
* Drafts complex legal documents for review and approval by Legal Counsel, including Place of Safety materials and other Protection Applications, substantive Affidavits including trial affidavits, and other materials for contested motions, trials and appeals. * Prepares factual summaries, chronologies, document briefs, evidentiary summaries and other litigation support materials for use by Legal Counsel. * Assists Legal Counsel with trial preparation, including organization of evidence, preparation of briefs, witness materials and litigation support documentation. * Reviews and analyzes Agency records, disclosure materials and other documentation for completeness and consistency with court requirements. * Works with child protection workers, supervisors and Legal Counsel to gather information required for preparation of court documents and litigation materials. * Maintains and updates legal precedents, templates, forms, drafting resources and quality assurance tools used within the Legal Department. * Represents the Society at administrative tribunals, including the Child and Family Services Review Board, where authorized and appropriate, and provides legal advice, analysis and support to Agency staff on those matters. * Monitors and tracks assigned drafting projects, court deadlines and document completion timelines. * Performs other duties as assigned. * Works in a safe manner in accordance with the Society?s health and safety policies and procedures and all relevant legislation. * Acts in accordance with and incorporates Society?s Code of Ethics, Confidentiality, Anti-Oppression/Anti-Racism, Harassment & Discrimination policies, etc. * Uses sound judgment in consideration of financial resources. * Complies with Society?s financial policies and procedures.
*QUALIFICATIONS*
_*Education and Experience*_
* Successful completion of a paralegal education program accredited by the Law Society of Ontario. * Licenced Class 1 Paralegal in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario. * Family Legal Services Provider designation is an asset. * Minimum five years? experience in a litigation, child protection, family law or related legal services environment. * Demonstrated experience preparing complex court documents, affidavits, motions, litigation briefs and legal materials. * Experience appearing before or supporting matters before administrative tribunals, including the Child and Family Services Review Board, is an asset.
_*Knowledge and Skills*_
* Exceptional legal drafting and written communication skills. * Advanced knowledge of court documentation, litigation procedures and evidentiary requirements. * Strong analytical, problem-solving and organizational skills. * Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines. * Superior attention to detail and document accuracy. * Strong communication and relationship-building skills. * Strong ability to work collaboratively with Legal Counsel, managers, support staff and Agency personnel. * Self-directed and able to work independently with minimal supervision. * Advanced knowledge of child protection proceedings, family law processes and the Family Law Rules. * Knowledge of administrative tribunal processes relevant to child welfare matters, including the Child and Family Services Review Board. * Excellent oral communication and advocacy skills. * Demonstrated proficiency in Microso