Staff Lawyer I - Family Law
Job Summary
Department Information
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.
Job Information
The Legal Aid Commission, established under the Legal Aid Act, provides state-funded legal services to eligible NWT residents in accordance with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Staff Lawyers deliver legal advice and representation in family law and child protection matters, safeguarding client rights and supporting access to justice in alignment with the Department of Justice mission.
The role involves managing assigned files independently with oversight from senior counsel, assessing legal aid applications and providing well-supported opinions for funding decisions, and handling custody, child support, and child protection cases of increasing complexity. The incumbent must recognize the significant impact of legal services on clients and their families and act with diligence and professionalism.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide opinions to the Legal Aid Commission for legal aid applicants.
- Provide legal advice and representation to approved clients in the areas of family law and child protection matters.
- Deal with other counsel and outside agencies in a professional manner while representing client's interests.
- Prepare all legal documents required for authorized court applications and motions.
- Represent clients in court proceedings in both Territorial and Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, in all regions of the NWT.
- Properly and effectively administer and document all files and comply with established office procedures.
- Assist with public legal education as directed by the Executive Director.
- Other activities may be directed from time to time by the Executive Director.
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong knowledge of relevant Canadian and NWT legislation, particularly family and child protection laws
- Experience with negotiation, mediation, collaboration, and alternative dispute resolution
- Demonstrated ability in family law and court advocacy across multiple levels
- Ability to work effectively with counsel and justice system professionals in a clinic setting
Key Qualifications
Law Degree and membership in the NWT Bar. One year of experience as legal counsel practicing in the family law area will be required along with experience working in a legal aid clinic environment and experience in managing other lawyers and support staff.
GNWT Inquiries
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
jobsyk@gov.nt.ca
Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.
More Information
Indigenous Employment Policy
Candidates must clearly identify their eligibility in order to receive priority consideration under the Indigenous Employment Policy.
Criminal Records Check
Candidates must provide a satisfactory criminal record check. Failure to provide a satisfactory check may deem you disqualified from the competition.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Government of the Northwest Territories is an inclusive workplace. If you have a disability and you require support during the hiring process, you are encouraged to identify your needs if you are contacted for an assignment or interview so that you may be accommodated during the hiring process.
Eligibility
Eligibility lists may be created from this competition to fill future term and indeterminate positions.
Equivalencies
Equivalencies may be considered based on a one-year of directly related experience equivalent to one year of education or one year of education for one year of experience. However, combinations of education and experience must often be considered on a case-by-case basis. For a full list of equivalencies that will be considered for this role, please contact human resources.
Job Opening Information
Job Opening ID # 27837
Closing Date: May 20, 2026- 23:59, Mountain Time
Salary Information
Salary for this position is currently Under Review.
Application Assistance
For more information on preparing and submitting your application, please visit: Preparing Your Application