Legal Support Worker
 
Job Description:
 
Note: This is a one year contract position.
 
Reporting to Senior Counsel, the Legal Support Worker is the key to the provision of effective and efficient legal services on behalf of the Children’s Aid Society of London and Middlesex (CASLM) teams and communities. This position performs a wide range of legal and administrative activities to support and facilitate quality service delivery to CASLM Safety and Well-being workers as well as children, youth, families and community partners. In collaboration with the Safety and Well-being worker, the Legal Support Worker ensures the timely completion of legal documents that offer an accurate and balanced position of the facts. With a focus on customer service, this position demonstrates productivity, organization, and a high level of responsiveness.
In all activities, the Legal Support Worker acts in accordance with the policies and practices of the CASLM and all legal and government requirements particularly the Child and Family Services Act (CFSA).
 
QUALIFICATIONS
·         Successful completion of a Law Clerk diploma from an accredited community college required
·         Membership or eligible for membership in the Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario
·         1 year minimum experience in a legal setting preferred
·         Experience related to the non-profit or social service sector preferred
·         Knowledge of the CFSA and its requirements and regulations
·         High level of computer literacy:
                 Strong skills in Microsoft Word as well as a 60% rating on testing
                 Ability to keyboard at 50 words per minute
                 Ability to complete direct entry into court documentation programs
                Excel skills an asset
                Ability and willingness to develop new and enhanced computer skills as technology options change and improve
·         Ability to navigate CASLM information systems (CWIS and e-FORMS)
·         Excellent written and verbal skills
·         Strong organizational skills
·         Strong communication skills
·         Ability to perform during periods of multiple demands
·         Ability to understand and manage with complex situations
·         Superior customer service skills with a focus on empowerment, respect and collaboration
·         Proven ability to work collaboratively across the agency
·         Strong bias for action and ability to work independently
·         Strong critical thinking and negotiating skills
AREAS OF FOCUS INCLUDE:
  ·         Provision of  services in a manner consistent with CASLM values and philosophy
·         Adherence to Service Model expectations and commitments
  ·         Act as the lead in coordinating, processing and completing all necessary legal documentation including:
Warrants
Notice of Hearing and Applications
Affidavits for First Appearances on Protection Applications
Affidavits for In Support of Motions
Statement of Agreed facts: Protection Application
Statement of Agreed Facts: Status Review Application
Plan of Care
Settlement Conference Brief
·         Ensure documentation is based on accurate information obtained through interviews with the Safety and Well-being  Worker, as well as other relevant CASLM staff, and review of applicable CASLM case notes and recordings
·         Identify and report trends and potential system limitations, as well as potential solutions, related to the Legal Support Worker roles and functions
·         Conduct all action and activities in accordance with the policies and practices of the CASLM and all legal requirements
·         Maintain confidentiality and display respect for children in care and their privacy at all times   ·         Establish effective working relationships with colleagues and community partners
·         Relate in a professional, purposeful and transparent manner
·         Collaboratively develop strategies to deliver, improve and evaluate services to stakeholders and employees
·         Communicate and support key internal stakeholders, inclusive of problem solving and troubleshooting support
  ·         Honour all the CASLM’s commitments to staff, children, youth, families and community partners by providing helpful, courteous, accessible, responsive and knowledgeable service
·         Focus individualized attention resulting in consistent, high-level customer satisfaction
·         Fully available to staff by being flexible with time and schedule in order to provide information and service
·         Anticipate staff needs and quickly adapt with solutions
·         Help staff navigate systems with greater ease by explaining the services offered and the requirements to access services
 

• Delivery of service is completed in a safe manner and exhibits good judgment and problem solving skills.  
• Ensure Senior Counsel is apprised of any health and safety issues in the performance of his/her duties in a timely fashion.

                            ·         Other duties as assigned.
 
 
Qualified Individuals are invited to apply to this opportunity by forwarding their resume and cover letter, quoting file #2014-114, to Jeff Tomlinson, People and Culture Advisor ( jeff.tomlinson@caslondon.on.ca ) by Monday October 6, 2014.
All Communications will be held in strict and professional confidence. Accommodation is available for applicants with a disability.