Provides legal advice and representation to the Society and its staff on matters pertaining to its child welfare mandate and activities, and related matters.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides legal advice to agency staff on the interpretation and application of legislation pertaining to child welfare, family law, and related or ancillary matters.
- Prepares cases for presentation in court by coordinating the gathering of all information and evidence, drafting pleadings, preparing affidavits, briefs and other documents for filing with the court, and preparing witnesses. Negotiates settlements.
- a) Presents cases in the court on behalf of the agency, from first appearance through contested motions, conferences, to trial. b) Represents the Society in appeals brought by others and by the Society from orders under the CYFSA, at all levels of court, as required.
- Represents the Society on applications for disclosure of Society records in criminal or other civil proceedings, in expunction hearings under the Child Abuse Register, and in proceedings before the Child and Family Services Review Board.
- Provides information, advice and counsel to Society workers on case preparation, required evidence and court procedures.
- Participates in the presentation of training programs on legal matters and procedures for agency staff, foster parents and others. As requested, prepares and delivers speeches and/or presentations to various groups in the community interested in child welfare law.
- Documents all legal issues, processes and case activities in accordance with established procedures, including reporting to client in a timely fashion.
- Acts in accordance with and incorporates Society's Code of Ethics, Confidentiality, Anti-Oppression/Anti-Racism, Harassment & Discrimination policies, etc.
- Uses sound judgment in consideration of financial resources.
- Complies with Society’s financial policies and procedures.
- Works and ensures assigned staff, work in a safe manner in accordance with the Society’s health and safety policies and procedures and all relevant legislation.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor of Law (L.L.B) degree or Juris Doctor (J.D.) from a university of recognized standing.Licensee in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
Knowledge and Skills:
- Knowledge of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act and Regulations, the Family Law Rules, the rules of evidence.
- Knowledge of case preparation, presentation and litigation techniques.
- Excellent oral and written communications skills.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize work.
- Demonstrated analytical and problem solving skills.
- Demonstrated commitment and ability to work as a team member.
- Computer proficiency, preferably with experience in Microsoft Word and CPIN.
OTHER INFORMATION
Accommodation at CAST
We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier free. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applicants need to make any accommodation requests for the interview or selection process known in advance by contacting the Human Resources Department at 416-924-4640 x2300. Human Resources will work together with the hiring committee to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation for the selection process which will enable you to be assessed in a fair and equitable manner.
Equity Hiring Strategy and Application Process
The Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAS of Toronto) is committed to building a skilled workforce that reflects the population of Toronto as well as the diverse communities we serve. For this specific career opportunity to support our Equity Hiring Strategy, CAS of Toronto is inviting applications from qualified individuals who self-identify as being part of one or more of the following under-represented groups:
- There are no designated under-represented groups at this time for this posting. All are welcome to apply.
This initiative is deemed to be a Special Program under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
During the online application process, applicants are still encouraged to complete the Employment Equity questionnaire, to indicate if they self-identify as being part of one or more of the above under-represented groups. Answering the questionnaire is voluntary and all responses will be kept confidential and used only for the purposes outlined in this program. If the questionnaire is not completed by an applicant, they will not be considered as being from an equity seeking group.
The information collected will help us identify qualified applicants from the listed under-represented groups for this specific opportunity as part of our Equity Hiring Strategy. In addition, information provided will be used to understand the diversity of candidates that apply to roles within CAS of Toronto. A summary of the responses to this questionnaire will be used to help assess application trends and inform the development of enhanced and future recruitment programs which are equitable and accessible.
Qualified applicants who are interested in this opportunity can apply for position by submitting their application consisting of a cover letter and resume by clicking the Apply button below (on our website at www.torontocas.ca), by fax (416-324-2400), or mail (30 Isabella Street, 5th Floor) to the attention of Human Resources.
Applications must be received in the Human Resources Department, NO LATER THAN 11:59 PM ON FRIDAY APRIL 26, 2024.
Please note: Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis throughout the posting period. Early submission is recommended. We thank all applicants for their interest; please note that only those who are under consideration will be contacted.
Apply here.
Apply here.