Criminal Justice Advocate

At Legal Aid Ontario, we are committed to delivering high-quality legal services to our clients. As a Criminal Duty Counsel, you will play a critical role in ensuring that individuals receive access to justice.

This is an exciting opportunity to work as a Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario. You will provide criminal duty counsel services at the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg and periodically at Lindsay and Peterborough courthouses. Your primary function will be to assist unrepresented clients who have been charged with criminal or quasi-criminal matters.

You will represent clients at bail hearings, guilty pleas, and remands both in-person and remotely. Additionally, you will assess clients' needs, including early identification of vulnerable clients, to facilitate referrals to appropriate services. Your duties will also include providing in-person and remote summary legal advice to clients in or out of custody, assisting colleagues in preparation of bail hearings, guilty pleas, and other forms of resolutions, and representing clients in Crown pre-trial negotiations for purposes of resolution.

You will work in a fast-paced environment while demonstrating collaboration and teamwork with colleagues and other stakeholders. Your ability to use computer-based file management and data entry systems, such as People Soft, DCSW, etc., as well as Microsoft Office, is essential. You must also be able to use latest communication technologies, including tablets and smartphones, and video conferencing platforms like Zoom/Teams.

• Licenced Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario
• Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, criminal law procedures, rules of evidence, and case law
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice or public interest work
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills coupled with strong advocacy skills in the Ontario Court of Justice

The salary range for this position is $90,186.96 - $151,095.50 per year. This role offers a competitive compensation package, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about delivering exceptional legal services and making a positive impact on your community, please apply today.