The mandate of the Department of Justice is to administer justice, including policing, community justice, victims services and corrections in the Northwest Territories. This mandate will be carried out in a manner which respects community and indigenous values and encourages communities to assume increasing responsibilities.
Located in Yellowknife and reporting to the Executive Director, Legal Aid Commission of the Northwest Territories (NWT), as the Staff Lawyer III - Criminal, you will provide legal advice and representation in criminal law matters of increasing complexity across the Northwest Territories. This role involves independent case management, court appearances at all levels, and contributing to the Legal Aid Commission's mandate to deliver accessible, efficient justice services. You will also provide mentorship, legal opinions on funding decisions, and supporting public legal education initiatives in a northern and culturally diverse environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently manage and conduct complex criminal law cases with limited supervision.
- Represent clients in Territorial Court, Supreme Court, and Court of Appeal, including circuit court travel across the NWT.
- Provide legal advice and representation to individuals charged with criminal offences.
- Appear at show cause hearings and act as duty counsel as required.
- Conduct criminal appeals and prepare legal arguments, motions, and court documents.
- Provide detailed legal opinions on legal aid applications, particularly for appeals.
- Oversee and maintain accurate client file documentation in compliance with procedures.
- Supervise and act as mentor to more junior staff lawyers or as a principal to articling students as directed by the Executive Director.
- Collaborate with court workers and support staff.
- Assist with public legal education as instructed by the Executive Director.
- Perform additional duties assigned by the Executive Director.
Knowledge and Skills
- Strong expertise in Canadian and Northwest Territories criminal law.
- Proven experience appearing before all levels of court, including Court of Appeal.
- Understanding of Indigenous and northern issues, with experience working with Indigenous communities.
- Experience with negotiation, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution.
- Ability to work independently in a demanding and complex legal environment.
- Capacity to manage sensitive cases involving social challenges such as violence, mental health, and substance use.
Key Qualifications
Law Degree and membership in the NWT Bar combined with five (5) years of experience as legal counsel practicing in the criminal law area, experience working in a legal aid clinic environment and experience in managing other lawyers and support staff.
Inquiries Only:
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE 5TH FLOOR
BOX 1320 YELLOWKNIFE NT X1A 2L9
Tel (867) 767-9154 Extension 14106
Fax (867) 873-0445
[email protected]
Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.
