About the Role
Conducts investigations by gathering, processing, and analyzing evidence for possible breaches of Rules of Professional Conduct, by-laws and regulatory requirements. Participates in the development of case plans and disposition proposals consistent with the Law Society’s public interest mandate, legislation and policies. Provides legal advice and domain expertise to members of the division. Engages in the timely, consistent and fair investigation of a wide range of issues relating to the professional conduct, competence, and capacity of licensees.
Responsibilities
- Investigates serious matters, including professional misconduct, conduct unbecoming, competence, licensing, capacity, and unauthorized practice.
- Develops case plans outlining investigation strategies and evidence requirements.
- Prepares comprehensive investigative reports.
- Identifies risk and conducts ongoing risk analysis.
- Follows procedural and administrative requirements regarding searches, seizures, and the handling, cataloguing, security, and continuity of evidence.
- Interviews witnesses and prepares witness statements in accordance with legal requirements.
- Prepares and provides legal advice on case preparation to other staff for the Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC) related to non-discipline recommendations.
- Assists in preparing cases for hearings, and other legal practice and other evidentiary matters.
- Assesses and recommends appropriate responses, such as establishing practice controls, obtaining search and seizure orders, identifying potential candidates for remedial diversion initiatives, and exploring alternative dispute resolution opportunities.
- Devises and implements plans of supervision for licensee’s practices.
- Communicates with staff, complainants, and licensees regarding the investigation process and disposition of cases, ensuring strict confidentiality.
- Assists department staff.
- Identifies legal issues arising from investigations and advises the department Director and senior management on policy development or revisions.
- Collaborates with the department to coordinate investigative and regulatory responses to identified issues involving subjects of investigations.
- Promotes the sharing and transfer of knowledge amongst team members.
- Contributes to the development of standardized practices, guidelines and procedures in the appropriate conduct and resolution of investigation files.
- Manages own caseload while working with team members and colleagues in Intake and Resolution, and Litigation Services to establish, monitor, and improve case management processes and performance targets.
Requirements
- Requires an LLB or JD.
- Requires a class L1 license with the Law Society of Ontario.
- Requires a minimum of 5 years’ experience in specific areas of law (e.g., real estate, family, wills and estates, civil or criminal litigation, and administrative law), preferably in a private practice, regulatory environment, or a combination.
- Requires a clearance check of regulatory history with the Law Society.
Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite / 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Broad understanding of the application of technology in a legal / regulatory environment.
- Adobe Acrobat Pro is an asset.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Project coordination, prioritization, and time management skills.
- Business acumen and data-driven decision-making.
- Interpersonal and presentation skills.
- Organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.
- Relationship Management.
- Ability to manage a multi-issue and diverse caseload.
- Concise, well organized writing skills in the preparation of a full range of investigative documents and memoranda.
Location
- Osgoode Hall
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in specific areas of law
Education Level
- LLB or JD
- Class L1 license with the Law Society of Ontario
Benefits
- Defined contribution pension plan
- Health and dental benefits plan
- Robust Employee and Family Assistance Plan (EFAP)
About the Company
- At Law Society of Ontario we believe in the importance of a collaborative and supportive work environment that provides high quality and professional service to the public, lawyers and paralegals, and other stakeholders.
- We value each member of our team and invest in your professional learning and development.
- We provide access to the resources needed to support professional growth.
- Mental health and well-being is a priority.
- Our competitive compensation package includes a defined contribution pension plan, health and dental benefits plan and a robust Employee and Family Assistance Plan (EFAP).
- Our progressive employment policies, high levels of employee engagement and the impressive architecture and beautiful grounds of the historic Osgoode Hall, there are many reasons to work at the Law Society.
Equal Opportunity
- The Law Society of Ontario values and respects diversity.
- We are committed to creating an accessible, barrier-free and inclusive workplace in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
- Please make any requirement you may have for accommodation during the recruitment process known when contacted.
- If you are unable to apply to this position due to the requirement for an accommodation of any kind, please email us at hr@lso.ca or call 416-947-3475.
- The Law Society of Ontario does not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants during the hiring process at present.
