CR CNSL 1 - Crown Counsel Level 1

Government of British Columbia; Port Coquitlam; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in the Metro Vancouver region seeks a Crown Counsel to prosecute criminal offenses under provincial laws. The role involves making critical decisions about charges, guiding cases in court, and supporting witnesses and victims. Candidates must meet legal qualifications, with preference given to those with recent trial experience and fluency in French. This position offers a temporary appointment with flexible work options.

Qualifications

• Eligible for call to the British Columbia Bar within 90 days.
• Preferably practicing in Criminal Law.

Responsibilities

• Lead prosecution of criminal offenses.
• Make decisions on charges and guide cases in court.
• Support witnesses and victims throughout the proceedings.

Skills

Significant criminal trial experience

Prosecution experience

Fluency in French

Education

Membership in good standing with the Law Society of British Columbia

Counsel up to 5th year of call

Job description

The Team

The Port Coquitlam and New Westminster Provincial Crown Offices are a group of dedicated professionals, including Management, Professional Support Staff, and Crown Counsel. They work together to ensure justice is served fairly and effectively, making a meaningful impact on the community and supporting victims of crime. This established team collaborates with a diverse group of legal experts who are passionate about protecting society.

The Role

As Crown Counsel, you will lead the prosecution of offences under the Criminal Code, provincial laws, and certain federal statutes, from start to finish. You’ll make important decisions about which charges to pursue and guide cases through the court process, all in line with BC Prosecution Service policies and the Crown Counsel Act. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to support witnesses, victims, and their families with care and respect, ensuring they feel prepared and informed throughout the court proceedings. This is a meaningful opportunity to make a positive impact on the justice system and the community.

Qualifications: Education and Experience Requirements

• Membership in good standing with the Law Society of British Columbia, or eligible for call to the British Columbia Bar within 90 days of the closing date of the competition.
• Crown Counsel Level 1: Counsel up to 5th year of call, preferably in the practice of Criminal Law and/or prosecution (2021 to 2025 year of call). Note: Lawyers with an excess of five (5) years of call to the bar will not be considered.

Preference may be given to the following

• Lawyers with recent (within the last 3 years) and significant criminal trial experience.
• Lawyers with criminal prosecution experience.
• Lawyers who speak, and are competent to conduct trials in, French.

Provisos

• Travel is a requirement of this position.

For questions regarding this position, please contact [e-mail].

About this Position

A temporary appointment of 12 to 18 months is available at both the New Westminster and Port Coquitlam locations.

An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies.

Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work up to two (2) days at home per week subject to an approved telework agreement.

This position is included in the Crown Counsel Association. Under the Public Service Labour Relations Act, this position is excluded from union membership. The terms and conditions of employment for union excluded positions are outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Employment for Excluded Employees available through the following website: Terms & Conditions of Employment for Excluded Employees / Appointees.

A Criminal Record Review Act Check (CRRA) and Enhanced Security Screening will be required.

Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.

Working for the BC Public Service

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.

The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Canadian Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Métis, or Inuit) applicants. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.

How to Apply

Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet the job requirements listed above. Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process may be assessed on their knowledge, skills, abilities, competencies and other position related requirements as outlined in the Job Profile at the bottom of the posting.

Cover Letter

YES - A cover letter is required as part of your application. In your cover letter, please indicate the year you were called to the BC Bar, or are expected to be called to the BC Bar AND which office(s) you are applying for. The content and/or format of your cover letter may be evaluated as part of the assessment process.

Resume

YES - Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history including start and end dates (month and year) of your employment, and any relevant information that relates to the job to which you are applying.

Questionnaire

YES - You will need to complete a standard questionnaire (current employment status, eligibility to apply, etc.).

Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit Your Job Application page of MyHR. Gain insights into the hiring journey by joining a Career Conversation. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.