BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE JOB
Reporting to the Managing Policy Lawyer, the Policy Lawyer is responsible for supporting the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) with research, writing and legal analysis to forward the implementation of the First Nations Justice Strategy. The Policy Lawyer will become an expert on the Justice Strategy and will write correspondence, policies, submissions, recommendations for legislative amendments and more to assist in advancing First Nations self-determination of justice systems and institutions.
This is a maternity leave position that we hope to hire by July 2026 so that the new Policy Lawyer can work with the existing Policy Lawyer before she leaves for maternity leave in September 2026.
Of the 25 Strategies in the BCFNJC Strategy, the ideal candidate will have experience or knowledge with Indigenous corrections issues, Indigenous criminal law issues, and awareness of criminal law procedure.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Policy Lawyer position is responsible for the following key functions.
- Draft briefing notes, legal opinions, and recommendations.
- Draft internal policies pertaining to health and safety, human resources, honoraria, procurement, finance, human rights, legal representation, and other diverse areas.
- Work respectfully and deferentially with First Nations’ Rights-Holders and BCFNJC Leadership.
- Where appropriate, integrate Indigenous law into policy and program development.
- Monitor relevant federal and provincial legislation, policy, and policy direction.
- Identify, research, and develop new policy positions in response to emerging issues.
- Draft and/or review contracts, policies, and other legal documents to meet BCFNJC needs.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
CHALLENGES OF JOB
- Excellent project management skills and the demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet heavy case/workload demands and deadlines.
- Strong leadership & supervisory experience; ability to lead, coach and direct staff, assignment management.
- Ability to synthesize complex legal problems and propose creative solutions.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills, with interpersonal skills and ability to foster and work within a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Ability to foster relationships and build rapport while creating/maintaining a culturally safe environment.
- Strong organization, file management, and stress management skills.
- Work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and demonstrate a high level of professional with tact and good judgment in dealing with sensitive issues.
- Able to work independently with minimal day-to-day supervision as well as working within a collaborative team framework.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
- Member of the Law Society of British Columbia in good standing.
- Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Laws advanced Degree and/or joint J.D/ J.I.D. is required.
- Minimum 3 years as a Policy Lawyer.
- 3-5 years’ experience in policy drafting is preferred but not required.
- Knowledge of local and urban Indigenous cultures is required.
- Knowledge of the structure and procedures of Canada’s Criminal Justice System, including knowledge of the criminal law, Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act, , Gladue principles and case law.
- Knowledge of the following is an asset: United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
- Deep understanding of the BC Law Society Rules is required.
- Experience working in an Indigenous and/or NGO/NFP environment is an asset.
- Valid BC Driver’s License, the use of a vehicle and ability to travel is an asset.
- A clear criminal reference check (CPIC) will be a condition of employment.
JOB IMPACT – DECISION MAKING
- Work is guided by broad technical/professional standards and strong judgment and independent and creative thinking is required for issues that are moderate to high complexity. Performance is monitored through general direction and regular reports of progress and results to Policy Management
- Has a breadth of decision-making influence and judgment based on circumstances or when presented with unclear information.
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Work is performed primarily in office or can be primarily remote. A computer will be provided for either in office or remote work.
- Work long hours using computer or other equipment.
- Occasional travel to attend meetings or training is required.
Reporting: Managing Policy Lawyer
Location: Any BCFNJC location or remote
Benefits: Extended benefits package that includes health and dental, personal days, paid vacation, and RRSP/TFSA savings plans
Pay Range: $90,000-$120,000 annually. Salary is commensurate with education, experience, and years of call.
Hours: Full-time (35hours/week); Mondays to Fridays
While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to Indigenous applicants in accordance with section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code. Candidates of Indigenous background are encouraged to self-identify on their application.
