Job Description

Law Clerk - Environmental & Land Planning
Downtown Toronto

Our client, a global law firm with offices in downtown Toronto is in need of an energetic, detail-oriented, self-starter to join its team of Law Clerks. The successful candidate will primarily support the professionals in the Environmental Law practice group

RESPONSIBILITIES

Evaluates the file to review case facts, determine appropriate processes and plans the steps necessary for the conduct of the file, ensuring critical deadlines are identified and met. This includes the following:

Upon intake of new file, prepare and review initial documentation and provide synopsis of facts, legislation, policy, and guidance for lawyer review;
For files using project management, create and update matter plans, checklists and fee estimates, initiate discussions with lawyer(s) to ensure file is on track; and
For files at the Federal Court or Federal Court of Appeal, review case facts, legislation and applicable Rules to determine the appropriate procedural route of appeal

Independently drafts a variety of documentation, including planning reviews, pleadings, forms, contracts, agreements, and correspondence to meet the needs of the various steps required throughout the conduct of the file, in accordance with legislation and/or governing regulations
Ensures that each action, and all court documents and filings on any particular file conform to the applicable Legislation, Rules and requirements of the Courts and/or Governing Tribunals or other Government Department
Systematically organizes, tracks and maintains document files and case correspondence, using, where appropriate, computer databases and imaging software. This includes:

Creating and maintaining client document databases in Relativity
Monitoring external online document repositories for hearings and due diligence processes and bringing forward key documents to the responsible lawyer.

Conducts searches, validates and evaluates results and prepares reports on the findings. This work includes:

Review of ERIS Log reports
Due diligence searches on mining claims in Ontario; and
Preparation of Freedom of Information requests and engaging in related Information and Privacy Commissioner appeals processes

Researches and analyses various issues, processes, case law, codes, legislation, etc.
Initiates follow up actions where and when necessary
Assists the professional in preparation for formal stages of the process, such as Examinations for Discovery; Closings; Court Proceedings, etc. This includes overseeing Court proceedings from start to finish in order to ensure service and filing deadlines are met
Liaises with client to obtain information, ensure the client is current with the status of their file and to answer, within the assigned authority, any queries/concerns the client may have
Communicates directly with service providers and judicial/tribunal officials in connection with the client’s file
Prepares reports on an as needed basis, including drafting of memoranda and preparation of supporting document books
Works directly with team on regulatory, municipal and land use planning matters:

Coordinating and managing development proposals;
Preparing various types of planning applications;
Liaising with clients and consultants;
Reviewing and analyzing official plans and zoning by-laws;
Assisting with preparation for Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) hearings;
Attending public meetings and hearings as necessary;

Assists with research and other duties as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Law Clerk/Paralegal or Legal Assistant Diploma/Certificate
At least 5–8 years of experience as a Law Clerk
Experience in the areas of Environmental and Municipal law would be an asset
3 to 5 years of land use planning experience or a degree in urban planning and membership or eligibility for membership with OPPI would also be an asset
The successful candidate will have a good working knowledge of municipal processes, the Planning Act and the OLT
The ability to communicate effectively and think strategically are also essential
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, project management and computer skills are required
Aptitude to take care of clients’ needs in a professional and courteous manner
Capacity to work independently, as well as in a team environment
Ability to conduct legal research
Knowledgeable about current relevant legislation and government regulations
In depth knowledge of legal terminology and principles
The ability to analyze legal documents for accuracy
Produce a high quality and quantity of work product, occasionally under tight timelines
Able to prioritize and to redefine priorities when necessary
Handle stress in a business-like manner
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, ACL and Relativity

Apply today and join a team of friendly, supportive professionals!
A generous compensation and benefit plan is offered

We thank all applicants for their interest in this role however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Linds & Associates

New Jobs

Law Clerk - Environmental Land Planning