Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients.
As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law.
If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.
Primary function
This position is responsible for providing assistance with the Refugee Law Office’s representation of clients in a variety of immigration and refugee applications. These applications may include refugee claims, immigration and refugee appeal matters, detention reviews, Humanitarian & Compassionate applications for permanent residence, Pre-Removal Risk Assessment applications, matters before the Federal Courts, and matters involving the Canada Border Services Agency and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. We are seeking someone who has experience working with persons who have experienced trauma, or who are living with serious mental illness and / or addictions, and who has the ability to work co-operatively with other staff in a fast paced and high case volume and high-pressure litigation environment. We are also seeking someone who has a demonstrated commitment to and empathy towards vulnerable persons, including refugees.
Services are currently provided both virtually and on site, with minimal "on-site" supervision. At times in may be necessary to meet with clients in person at provincial jails and/or an Immigration Holding Centre. Flexibility is required based on operational needs.
Home Position: Toronto
Secondary/Tertiary locations can include: provincial jails and/or an Immigration Holding Centres
As per Legal Aid Ontario’s Hybrid Work Policy, this role has been designated as LAO Workplace based: Role is physically based in an in-person LAO workplace up to five (5) days per week with the potential for hybrid work based on the nature of the role, and as client service and operational needs permit.
Reports to: RLO Toronto Managers
Key accountabilities
- Interview clients virtually, in the office and at detention centers as required to assist with intakes and in the preparation of immigration and refugee law matters;
- Draft correspondence, client statements, affidavits and submissions under the supervision of a lawyer in a variety of immigration and refugee applications;
- Assist with the completion of immigration forms and online portals under the supervision of a lawyer in a variety of immigration and refugee applications;;
- Research country conditions, obtain expert opinions and prepare disclosure packages for submission to the IRB, the IRCC, the CBSA and the Courts;
- Liaise with community agencies, doctors and hospitals concerning clients’ mental health needs and records;
- Assist in finding alternatives to detention and other supports for vulnerable clients as required;
- Provide administrative assistance and support to lawyers and management at the office as required, including backup reception if necessary.
Required skills & experience
- At least 1 year of recent experience in immigration and refugee law is an asset
- Well-developed research and writing skills, including attention to detail
- Experience in conducting interviews with vulnerable client groups in a social service environment
- Ability to work comfortably within a team, under pressure and in a changing environment
- Ability to multitask and meet internal case management deadlines.
- Experience liaising with government officials and medical service providers
- Knowledge of community resources dealing with immigrants and refugees
- Knowledge of community resources for individuals with mental health or addiction issues
- Lived experience as an immigrant and/or within immigrant and refugee communities is an asset;
- Ability to communicate in languages other than English is an asset; and
- A valid driver’s license is an asset.
- Intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft Word
- Being certified as a Commissioner of Oaths is an asset
To apply submit a cover letter & résumé.
Only those candidates selected for an interview will be notified by email.
This position is collectively represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) and the successful incumbent will be governed by the provisions of a collective agreement and subject to union dues.
Please note that all applicants are encouraged to provide a valid email address for communication purposes. Applicants may receive written correspondence regarding this job posting directly to the email address provided on their resume or to the one used to set up their Candidate Profile if applying on Njoyn. As an applicant, it is your responsibility to ensure that you check your email regularly.
First time applying to LAO? You will need to create a profile AND then apply for the position.
Already have an Njoyn account? Just sign in and select "my jobs" to apply.
Once you have successfully applied you will receive a confirmation email.
Trouble applying? For telephone support please call 1-877-427-7717 or email support: candidate.njoynhelp@cgi.com
Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available upon request.
Legal Aid Ontario encourages applicants from equity seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis descent, persons with disabilities, women, members of racialized communities and the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We recognize the value of diversity, equity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
