ABOUT GOWLING WLG
At Gowling WLG, our commitment to excellence begins with our people. As an international law firm with offices in Canada, the U.K., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, we’re proud to recruit and retain top talent who bring energy, insight, and a singular focus on delivering exceptional experiences – for our clients and each other.
We’re intentional about building a workplace that’s both high-performing and supportive, ensuring that everyone is empowered to do their best work and reach their full potential. Our culture is grounded in our shared values: Raise the Bar, Embrace Differences, and Thrive Together. These values shape how we collaborate, lead, and succeed – across teams, time zones, and career paths.
Whether you’re pursuing a role in law or business services, explore what’s possible and make your mark with Gowling WLG.
PROFILE
As a member of Gowling’s global conflicts team, the Conflicts Lawyer will support the General Counsel Team and the Conflicts Assessment and Matter Analysis Team (CAMAT) with the implementation and continuous improvement of conflicts search and analysis processes and procedures.
This position can be based in any of our Canadian offices!
RESPONSIBILITIES
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Ability to conduct conflict of interest searches and exercise good judgement to identify and resolve issues. Experience in navigating conflicts of interest issues in various practice groups, or in-depth familiarity with MacDonald Estate v. Martin ([1990] 3 SCR 1235) and Canadian National Railway Co. v. McKercher ([2013] 2 SCR 649), is a plus.
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Assist with review and analysis of lateral hire conflicts disclosures and provide guidance to Department Chairs and Human Resources on how to resolve related issues, and draft the necessary confidentiality documents.
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Advise on, and determine the need for client disclosure and ethical walls, and preparing appropriate disclosure and waiver letters, if needed.
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Conduct research relating to Conflicts law and professional duties and rules of conduct.
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Analyze trends in file openings and conflict of interest issues, to assist in the further automation and innovation of processes.
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Contribute to the development and improvement of the CAMAT, including streamlining work flow processes and software enhancements to upgrade our integrated global operation.
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Review and manage Outside Counsel Guidelines, including cyber security elements.
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Conduct and participate in risk management and conflicts-related professional development presentations to firm members.
QUALIFICATIONS
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Law degree and membership in a Canadian law society.
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Bilingualism (English/French) is required.
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1-3 years of experience working in a legal environment. Experience in navigating conflicts of interest issues in various practice groups, or in-depth familiarity with MacDonald Estate v. Martin ([1990] 3 SCR 1235) and Canadian National Railway Co. v. McKercher ([2013] 2 SCR 649), is a plus.
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Ability to conduct conflict of interest searches and exercise good judgement to identify and resolve issues.
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Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities, think critically and show initiative while working in a high volume and time sensitive environment.
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Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to multi-task.
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Strong interpersonal, influencing and consensus building skills.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Proven ability to provide excellent client service.
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Strong interest in technology and advanced computer literacy; willingness to learn Intapp, InProtech, iManage, SPM, Aderant, Harvey and Kira;
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Capacity to work independently, as well as in a team environment.
BENEFITS/PERKS
Gowling WLG’s total rewards program is designed to foster a culture where high performance and personal well-being go hand-in-hand. We support your career and life with:
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100% employer-paid health, dental, and mental health coverage, plus an annual lifestyle spending allowance
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Benefits coverage for Firm members and their dependents from day one!
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15+ vacation days and hybrid work flexibility
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Parental leave top-up for 26 weeks (after 12 months of full-time employment)
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Group Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
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Financial protection through short & long-term disability, life, accident & critical illness insurance
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Employee & Family Assistance Program, guided CBT, and an internal network of 120+ trained Mental Health First Aid responders
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Recognition awards, appreciation events, and a supportive, collaborative work culture
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Perks and preferred pricing programs, referral bonuses and more
The starting range for this role is $100,000 to $115,000. Starting salary will be determined based on an applicant’s individual skills, competencies and unique qualifications. Gowling WLG employees have the potential to exceed this range based on tenure and performance.
This position is currently vacant and is open to both internal and external candidates. Gowling WLG is recruiting for this role to support ongoing firm needs and team operations.
Gowling WLG may use tools within our applicant tracking system that include artificial intelligence–supported features, such as automated candidate matching. These tools do not make hiring decisions; all screening, assessments, and selections are reviewed and completed by human recruiters and hiring managers.
Gowling WLG is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. If you are in need of accommodation or support at any time during the recruitment process, please let us know.
