of counsel Toronto
NCFST
Full Time
Toronto
131427 - 109517 CAD ANNUAL Today
Job description
Hours: 35 hrs/wk.
Range: $109,517- $131,427
Range: $109,517- $131,427
Location: 30 College St., Toronto
Classification: FT Permanent
Summary:
Native Child and Family Services of Toronto strives to provide a life of quality, well-being, caring and healing for our children and families in the Toronto Indigenous Community. We do this by creating a service model that is culture-based and respects the values of Indigenous people, the extended family, and the right to self-determination and through the integration of holistic, culturally based prevention services that are child centred, family focused, and community driven.
Primary Responsibilities:
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.
- Establish and develop active working relationships and negotiations with Bands and territories.
- 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 co-ordinating 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.
Qualifications, Knowledge and Skills:
- 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.
- Minimum 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 Métis 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.
To apply, please provide:
- Cover letter outlining how you how meet the qualifications of the role.
- Current resume and include three work related references
- Proof of Vaccination. NCFST employees are required 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.
- As a multi-service urban Aboriginal agency providing holistic, culture-based programs and services to Aboriginal children, and families, NCFST will give priority to applicants who identify as First Nations, Inuit, Metis, and those with close affiliations.
- NCFST is 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.
