Criminal Defense Attorney

Job Title: Staff lawyer, Criminal (4+ years of call)
Job Type: Contract
Contract Duration: 24-36 months
Job Location : Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet Nunavut
Job Category: Legal
Workplace Based - The role is physically based in an NU Legal Aid Office.
Open Positions : multiple
Posting Date: April 1, 2024
Closing Date: Open until filled
Salary: Currently under review plus a generous top industry compensation benefits package.

Nunavut Legal Aid 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 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 career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity.

Building a diverse workforce representing the Inuit 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 Legal Aid. We encourage applicants from equity-seeking groups.
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.

Primary function
To provide duty counsel services, remotely and in person. The individual(s) selected for these positions will be based in one of our clinics located in Iqaluit, Cambridge Bay or Rankin Inlet.
A high volume of clients with complex and varying needs seek criminal duty counsel services, making for a demanding and challenging work environment. These positions will appeal to a lawyer with experience in a broad range of criminal proceedings who can effectively navigate the demands of a dynamic and sometimes hectic workplace. The preferred candidate will be a self-starter with substantial criminal law experience in the private or public sector who is familiar with legal aid criminal services.

Reporting to: Criminal Practice Lead

Key Accountabilities
Provide high-quality legal services in a cost-effective manner.
Represent clients through all stages of criminal proceedings.
Courageous advocacy on behalf of our clients who are living embodiment of the Gladue factors.
Liaise with stakeholders, including detention center staff, RCMP, Crown Attorneys, and court staff.
Provide legal advice to clients in or out of custody.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge about criminal law and practice.
Timely file management and maintenance, as per Legal Aid requirements (this includes using computer technology, smartphones and required software).
Data collection, including timely recording of services provided.
Remain adaptable and flexible in a changing environment.
Punctual attendance.
Facilitate knowledge-sharing and best practices amongst colleagues.
Perform other duties and administrative tasks as assigned.

Required skills and experience.
Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Nunavut or another Canadian jurisdiction.
Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, Youth Criminal Justice Act, criminal law procedures, rules of evidence and relevant case law.
Experience in criminal law/strong advocacy skills and interview techniques.
Experience representing clients with complex legal issues, including representing clients for bail hearings and guilty pleas. Trial experience and experience conducting bail reviews is considered an asset.
Client-focused with excellent problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
Experience working with marginalized and vulnerable clients.
Ability to learn and adapt to new or modified policies and procedures.
Strong interpersonal skills – the ability to work in a team setting, relate to other staff and manage through conflict.
Excellent communication skills.
Courtroom and trial experience.
Sound judgment and ability to work in stressful situations.
Capability with Microsoft 365 programs (Teams, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and Excel) and other computer-based programs such as SharePoint.

Preferred skills & experiences:
Prior training, advocacy experience or demonstrated interest, in mental health, Indigenous issues, addictions, homelessness and youth issues.
Capacity to help train and mentor.
Demonstrated ability to use the latest communication technologies and social media.
Demonstrated commitment to social justice.