In-House Legal Counsel

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit organization focused on community health in Toronto seeks a Legal Counsel to provide legal advice and representation in child welfare cases. Candidates must hold a law degree and possess at least two years of relevant experience. This role requires strong communication and organizational skills in a supportive team environment. Join us in making a difference in the community.

Benefits

Equal Opportunity Employer

Accessibility accommodations provided

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in child welfare law.
• Excellent oral, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Understanding of workplace health and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and representation on child welfare matters.
• Negotiate settlements and conduct trials.
• Prepare cases for court proceedings.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Confidentiality

Education

Law degree (LLB or JD)

Member of the Law Society of Ontario

Job description

Job Description

Hours: 35 hrs/wk.
Location: 30 College St., Toronto
Classification: Full-time 12-month Contract.

Summary

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto strives to provide a life of quality, well-being, caring and healing for our children and families in the Toronto Indigenous Community. We do this by creating a service model that is culture-based and respects the values of Native people, the extended family, and the right to self-determination and through the integration of holistic, culturally based prevention services that are child centred, family focused, and community driven.

At Native Child, we are guided by our purpose: Honoring Our Roots, Embracing Our Future. We are inspired to be and do our best, recognizing the profound impact we have on our communities, our people, and our shared heritage. Our commitment to preserving and celebrating Indigenous culture drives us to be a leading force in our region. Here, you are welcomed into an inclusive and supportive environment that values each individual’s contributions and fosters collective success.

Primary Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the Legal Services Manager, the In-House Legal Counsel will provide legal advice and representation to Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST) and its staff on matters pertaining to its child welfare mandate and activities, and related matters.
• Establish and develop active working relationships and negotiations with First Nations, Inuk and Métis communities.
• The Legal Counsel will provide legal advice to NCFST staff on the interpretation and application of Provincial and Federal legislation pertaining to child well‑being, family law, and related or ancillary matters.
• Prepare cases for presentation in court by coordinating the gathering of all information and evidence, drafting pleadings, assisting workers to prepare affidavits and reviewing briefs and other documents for filing with the court.
• Present cases in the court on behalf of NCFST up to and including trials.
• Negotiate settlements and Customary Care Agreements and plan and conduct trials and Summary Judgment Motions when necessary; prepare witnesses for hearings.
• Represent NCFST in appeal matters before the Superior Court, the Divisional Court and the Ontario Court of Appeal.
• Represent NCFST on applications for disclosure of NCFST records in criminal or other civil proceedings, in proceedings before the Child and Family Services Review Board, and in expunction hearings under the Child Abuse Registry.
• Participate in the presentation of training programs on legal matters and procedures for agency staff, foster parents and others.
• Document all legal issues, processes and case activities in accordance with established procedures.
• Other related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications and Skills

• Law degree [LLB or JD] from a university of recognized standing.
• Member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario.
• Pass a vulnerable sector police records check.
• Minimum two (2) years experience representing a Children’s Aid Society, children or parents in Child, Youth and Family Service Act proceedings or with significant practice history in child welfare.
• Additional assets include your knowledge and understanding of the unique dynamics that exist within the First Nation, Inuit, and Métis cultures.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Excellent organizational, oral/verbal/written communication skills; ability to multitask and prioritize work demands; ability to analyse and problem solve; initiative, and respect for confidentiality.
• Demonstrated understanding, and commitment to, integrating the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto Mission and values into practice, service and relationships.
• Demonstrated understanding of workplace Health and Safety practices and understanding of an employee’s responsibility under current legislation.
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of staff, to maintain effective communication and working relationships, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, tact, sensitivity and build strong internal relationships.

Please note that the successful candidate is required to complete a background check.

Work Environment

• Standard office environment; minimal physical demands.
• Class G License and access to a vehicle.

To Apply, Please Provide

• Cover letter outlining how you meet the qualifications of the role.
• Current resume and include three work related references.
• We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.
• In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Native Child will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment and selection process to applicants with disabilities as required. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please contact Human Resources at [e-mail].

Come join our team - and help create a difference in the community.

Closing Date: November 17, 2025.