Job Description:
POSITION PURPOSE
Reporting to the Senior Counsel, provides confidential, legal and administrative support, including drafting or preparing correspondence and legal documents with an emphasis on infrastructure law and corporate/commercial matters as well as administration and management of legal practice.
- Drafts and/or prepares by-laws, agreements, contracts, statements, affidavits, corporate searches, correspondence, documentation pertaining to infrastructure projects, including transit and utility projects, and corporate/commercial matters as assigned.
- Administers and processes legal documents and arranges for signature, execution and registration of documents and agreements.
- Assists in drafting and in the preparation of confidential correspondence, documents and reports.
- Identifies best practices and procedures in connection with job duties and responsibilities and implements changes.
- Drafts and/or prepares and co-ordinates background material, briefing notes, as appropriate, for response to inquiries.
- Maintains filing system, precedents etc. and updates records and lists to ensure accuracy; files correspondence, reports and other documents in accordance with Regional standards and assists with records management.
- Produces and distributes documents, ensuring security and confidentiality of information.
- Acts as the communications link between Counsel and cross-department staff, politicians, outside agencies and the public.
- Receives, redirects and responds, as appropriate, to communications and takes appropriate action to ensure urgent matters are dealt with quickly.
- Assists lawyers by maintaining schedules, arranging meetings and attendance at courses.
- Participates in meetings, staff committees and work groups as assigned.
- Provides back-up coverage, as required, during the absences of other Legal Assistants.
- Performs other duties as assigned to meet Branch and Department objectives.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Successful completion of a post-secondary education in a Legal Assistant Program or equivalent approved combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of five (5) years legal administrative experience in a private or public law practice with an emphasis on corporate/commercial matters. Experience in infrastructure or municipal-related matters would be considered an asset.
- Thorough knowledge of the preparation of various legal documents, contracts, agreements, records and file systems, and clerical administrative practices.
- Knowledge of and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer service, communication, teamwork, initiative/self-management and accountability, and flexibility/adaptability.
- Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software applications and Quicklaw.
- Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems.
- Organizational skills and ability to assess priorities, work independently to meet required deadlines with conflicting demands and changing priorities.
