Legal Counsel - OOS

Key Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Executive Director of Legal Services, the position of Legal Counsel will be required to assist in the provision of legal, strategic and business advice and assessment of risk.  In a complex and fast paced environment this position is responsible for providing legal advice and support to the Chief of Police, Executive, all members of the Regina Police Service, as well as the Board of Police Commissioners for the City of Regina, in the discharge of their duties, as directed and under the supervision of the Executive Director of Legal Services. 

1.       Draft, negotiate, and review legal contracts and memoranda of understanding.
2.       Provide legal opinions, advice and support for inquiries and requests on a wide variety of legal issues within many areas of law including criminal law, human rights law, labour and employment law, access to information and privacy law, constitutional law, police powers, tort law, etc.
3.       Assist with advice on regulatory and contractual issues, including collective bargaining and collective agreement interpretation.
4.       Review applicable statutes and regulations.
5.       Represent the Chief of Police in discipline proceedings, or civil or administrative proceedings before all levels of court, and at Inquests called pursuant to The Coroner's Act.
6.       Represent the Board in civil or administrative proceedings, before all levels of court, or retain and instruct outside legal counsel.
7.       Represent members in civil or administrative proceedings, or retain and instruct outside legal counsel.
8.       Negotiate settlements.
9.       Draft legal documents for use in litigation.
10.     Review and make formal recommendations for amendments to policy and procedures to respond to changes in the law, based on legislation or case law.
11.     Proactively identify operational risks, and develop recommendations and action plans.
12.     Prepare training and presentations on legal issues for all members of the Regina Police Service.
13.     Support the Access and Privacy Unit. 
14.     Other legal matters as assigned.

Competencies

1.       Graduation from an accredited school of law.
2.       Must be a member in good standing with the Law Society of Saskatchewan, or eligible for membership.
3.       7 or more years related legal experience.
4.       Experience with criminal and civil litigation, and employment in a unionized workplace.
5.       Demonstrated ability to give advice, or make decisions independently and on complex legal issues.
6.       Effective attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
7.       High level of integrity, confidentiality, and accountability, and able to pass the Regina Police Service's pre-employment screening.
8.       Strong work ethic and positive team attitude.
9.       Sound analytical and strategic thinking, planning, prioritization, and execution skills.
10.     Ability to respond appropriately in pressure situations with a calm and steady demeanor.
11.     Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
12.     Ability to build and maintain lasting relationships with other departments, key business partners, and government agencies.
13.     Knowledge of key legislation, including but not limited to The Police Act, 1990, and applicable regulations, The Local Authority Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, The Saskatchewan Employment Act, The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, The King's Bench Rules of Court, The Criminal Code, The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.