Associate Legal Counsel (Non Litigation)
Position Summary
Municipalities are at the forefront of the relationship between citizens and government. Municipal government interacts with citizens far more directly than any other level of government. This gives our lawyers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in our community.
Under the general direction of the Director, Legal Services & City Solicitor, the Associate Legal Counsel provides specialized legal advice to Council, Committees, senior staff and various municipal boards and agencies in a vast range of different areas of law, including administrative law, public procurement law, commercial law, real estate law, planning law, intellectual property law, construction law, contract law, constitutional law and human rights.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Legal Advice and Guidance:
Provide legal advice and strategies to council, committees, senior staff and departments on a wide range of legal matters affecting their functions; and
Interpret and draft municipal ordinances, resolutions, policies and procedures.
Contracts and Transactions:
Draft, review and negotiate contracts, including procurement agreements, by-laws, facta, opinions, reports, letters, policies and development approvals;
Ensure documents meet regulatory and municipal requirements and the City's interests are safeguarded; and
Monitor and ensure compliance with changes in relevant laws and regulations.
Risk Management & Advisory:
Identify and mitigate legal risks associated with municipal operations; and
Collaborate with insurance and risk addressing potential liabilities.
Real Estate and Development Files:
Carriage of real estate, planning and other development file;
Ensure compliance with land use planning, environmental and other development regulations; and
Provide guidance on municipal planning matters.
Education and Training:
Develop and deliver training sessions on legal compliance, contract management, procurement of best practices and development-related processes to enhance legal awareness among staff and council.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications, Competencies
University degree in law (LL.B or J.D.).
5 - 10 years recent and progressively responsible municipal law experience.
Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
Skills, Abilities, Work Demands
Excellent communication, advocacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills;
Strong customer service and interpersonal skills;
Ability to work in a team environment, liaise with key stakeholders and to function effectively with minimal supervision;
Advanced computer skills including MS Office proficiency;
Strong time and project management skills with the ability to multi-task;
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to gather and interpret information;
Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to formulate solutions to complex issues;
Proficient knowledge of statutes, regulations and by-laws affecting municipal government; and
Required to obtain and maintain a satisfactory criminal record check.