Job Description
Organization Summary:
Empowered by the First Nations Leadership Council and in partnership with the provincial and federal governments, the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) is responsible to 204 First Nations in BC. Our mandate is to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system and to support Nations as they move to sovereignty over justice.
The BCFNJC is rapidly growing, and we are seeking team members who understand the gravity of this responsibility and are excited by the opportunity. Indigenous people in BC deserve world-class legal services and programs. We are seeking to hire staff who share our vision and will not stop until we reach our goal. We take our mandate seriously but also strive for a balanced, caring work environment that is respectful and supportive.
Position Summary:
The Policy Lawyer is responsible for supporting the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) with research, writing and legal analysis to forward the implementation of the First Nations Justice Strategy. The Policy Lawyer will become an expert on the Justice Strategy and will write correspondence, policies, submissions, recommendations for legislative amendments and more to assist in advancing First Nations self-determination of justice systems and institutions.
As the Policy Lawyer, you are well versed in the development and implementation of policy. You are a creative thinker, ready to develop alternative approaches to policy, programs and legislative change. As a member of the Policy Team, you will provide support to the Justice Council and across the organization. In particular, this position will provide policy support for our Indigenous Justice Centres (Strategy 4) and Gladue Services Team (Strategy 6).
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Draft briefing notes, legal opinions, and recommendations
- Draft policies pertaining to health and safety, human resources, honouraria, procurement, finance, human rights, legal representation and other diverse areas
- Work respectfully and deferentially with Rights-Holders
- Where appropriate, integrate Indigenous law into policy and program development
- Monitor relevant federal and provincial legislation, policy and policy direction
- Identify, research, and develop new policy positions in response to emerging issues
- Draft and review contracts, policies, and other legal documents to meet BCFNJC needs
- Complete other related duties as required
Qualifications and Work Experience:
- Member of the Law Society of British Columbia in good standing
- J.D. / LL.B.; Advanced Degrees and/or Joint J.D./J.I.D. are considered
- an asset
- 3-5 years’ experience in policy drafting is preferred
- Knowledge of local and urban Indigenous cultures is required
- Knowledge of the structure and procedures of Canada’s Criminal Justice System, including knowledge of the criminal law, Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act, Crown Counsel Policy Manual (in particular charge assessment guidelines), Gladue principles and case law
- Knowledge of the structure and procedures of British Columbia’s child protection system, including the Child Family and Community Services Act, and Bill C-92 – An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families
- Knowledge of the following is an asset: United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action
- Self-motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision in a team-oriented setting
- Strong organizational, case and file management skills, stress management and time management skills
- Ability to engage people to build trust and rapport; have effective verbal and listening communication skills
- Confidentiality and professionalism regarding sensitive information is essential
- Ability to problem solve and take initiative
- Ability to travel on occasion as needed
- Deep understanding the BC Law Society Rules is required
- Experience working in an Indigenous and/or NGO/NFP environment is an asset
Reporting: This position will report to the Executive Director (subject to change)
Location: This position has the flexibility to work from any of our physical Indigenous Justice Centres, our head office in Westbank, BC or remote within BC.
Pay Range: Starts at $85,000, commensurate with experience
Hours: Full-time (35hours /week); Mondays to Fridays
While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to Indigenous applicants in accordance with section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code. Candidates of Indigenous background are encouraged to self-identify on their application.