Job ID #32095 Solicitor

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #32095 Solicitor (2 vacancies)
• Union: Non-Union
• Job Description ID #: 5377
• Duration: Up to 18 months
• Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Under the general direction of the City Solicitor and Deputy City Solicitor, provide high quality and effective legal advocacy, advice, and services to the management and staff of the City and related boards and agencies to ensure the actions undertaken will support corporate financial, and other goals and legal requirements.

The focus of the position will be on the organization and carriage of an active case load of litigation files including insurance defence, contract and commercial disputes, and administrative law proceedings with related trial and appeal work.

Experience in one or more of insurance defence, commercial litigation, administrative tribunal, and appeals, is a significant asset.

GENERAL DUTIES

Provides specialized legal services and consultation to the City Manager, Senior Management and staff at all levels on legal matters.

Develops and implements proactive strategies, anticipates and identifies legal challenges that help to protect the interests of the City and to reduce exposure to legal risks.

Ensures that legal services are provided to contribute to the effectiveness of programs and services throughout the City.

Provides research, analysis, counsel, and advice for City Council, City Departments, Boards, Commissions and Authorities on the legal implications of matters of law, legislation, procedures, operational and strategic decisions.

Reviews and prepares documents, policies and procedures for the City to ensure that they are clear, concise, comply with all applicable laws and to minimize exposure.

Provides legal opinions and advice on matters that pose significant risks to the City to assist decision-makers at all levels in making decisions regarding their service and program delivery.

Represents the City before Tribunals, Inquiries and at all levels of Court with high degree of professional advocacy.

Participates in the development and implementation of a preventative law program aimed at precluding and remedying anticipated legal problems arising out of day-to-day operations or projects.

Assists City Solicitor and staff with service delivery.

Works in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.

Performs other duties as assigned which are directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognized University. Membership in good standing in the Law Society of Ontario. At a minimum, 3 to 7 years of progressively more responsible practice in the areas of law described above.
2. Experience in insurance defence, including proven competency with independently drafting pleadings, conducting discoveries and preparing for and conducting mediations and all litigation steps up to and including trial.
3. Broader commercial and administrative advocacy experience is an asset.
4. Possess a high level of professionalism and integrity, and excellent communication skills reflecting ability to express ideas effectively, orally, in writing and through formal presentations.
5. Excellent interpersonal skills, to interact effectively with legal team members and maintain a collegial working environment, and to deal with members of Council, government officials, outside professionals and members of the public.
6. Highly developed analytical and business planning skills with a proven track record for long-term visioning and big picture thinking. Experienced in designing and delivering customer focused programs and services; and using a "best practices" approach in developing and delivering quality services in a timely and cost-effective manner.
7. Highly developed ability to articulate a vision, to lead and inspire others. Highly effective leadership, facilitation, communication, presentation, and organizational skills.
8. Thorough knowledge and understanding of key statutes, regulations and by-laws affecting the Division and municipality.
9. Proven ability to manage a high volume of files in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities
10. Must have computer skills in a Windows environment utilizing MS Office software to support a high degree of self-sufficiency and ability to work in a “paperless” legal office.

Disclaimer

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy.Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes.Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.