New Job Legal Assistant - Chilliwack Indigenous Justice Centre In British Columbia

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY:
A provincial organization that is led by Indigenous people appointed by the First Nations, the BC First Nations Justice Council supports the well-being of future generations by transforming the status quo today – upholding self-determination, reclaiming legal traditions and addressing systemic injustice.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Legal Assistant’s primary responsibility is to provide administrative and secretarial services to the Indigenous Justice Centre Staff Lawyer. The Staff Lawyer’s practice has a strong focus on criminal defence work with some child protection matters. The Legal Assistant must be a self-motivated individual with the ability to work with minimal supervision. At times, the Legal Assistant may be exposed to sensitive information and must maintain confidentiality.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare a variety of legal documents (i.e. affidavits, subpoenas, factums, applications and orders, etc.) from the Staff Lawyer’s notes.
• Prepare and arrange filing of court documents and ensure proper presentation of material for court.
• Prepare books of authorities, and order and log transcript requests.
• Open, update, maintain, index and assemble hard copy and computerized files and records.
• Obtain legal documents and follow-up on information from Crown Counsel and review and organize materials as directed by the Staff Lawyer.
• Perform the witness management function by locating and notifying witnesses; arranging appointments and travel requirements; and processing witness expenses for witnesses and/or expert witnesses.
• Document receipt of disclosure (legal documents, photographs, audio or videotaped statements, log materials).
• Respond to enquiries from Crown Counsel, clients and witnesses (who may at times be under emotional stress).
• Maintain a Bring Forward System for the Staff Lawyer to ensure timely response to correspondence, compliance with limitation periods and attendance at appointments.
• Close legal records (trial, hearing or appeal), ensure dispositions are noted accurately and update precedent records and files.
• Conduct records management functions by classifying and storing records.
• Arrange telephone and video conferencing for court appearances.
• Compile and submit statistical data with regard to clients served and services delivered, in accordance with the BCFNJC’s Data Collection Framework.
• Other tasks and duties as required at the discretion of the Staff Lawyer.

Qualifications & Work Experience:

• 3+ years’ experience working as a legal assistant or paralegal in an office that offers criminal law or child protection legal services.
• Knowledge of First Nations practices and culture.
• Experience in Indigenous community engagement.
• Experience preparing legal documents, books of authorities and all aspects of maintaining criminal files and disclosure.
• Experience in management of child protection files is an asset.
• Proficiency in record keeping, researching legal precedents (Quicklaw & CanLii), electronic redacting (using Adobe), Outlook, Internet and standard computer applications in MS Office.
• Ability to use tact, diplomacy, discretion and good judgment when dealing with sensitive situations, confidential material and demanding and difficult people.
• Knowledge of Clio practice management software is an asset; and
• A clear criminal reference check (CPIC) and Vulnerable Sector Clearance will be a condition of employment.

Reporting: This position will report to the Staff Lawyer for daily assignments and directions.
Location: Lower Mainland
Salary Range: $40,000 to $50,000 annually - salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Hours: Full-time (35 hours / week); Mondays to Fridays
Benefits: Extended benefits package that includes health and dental, personal days, paid vacation, and RRSP/TFSA savings plans