Regional Solicitor – Cape Breton Regional Municipality

Nova Scotia Barristers' Society; Nova Scotia; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional municipal organization in Nova Scotia is seeking a Regional Solicitor. You will oversee all legal services for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, supervise the legal department, and provide legal advice to municipal officials. The ideal candidate will have a law degree, be in good standing with the NS Barristers' Society, and possess at least 10 years of legal experience. Strong knowledge in municipal law and effective communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience in the practice of Law.
• Criminal Records Check verification required.
• Authorized to practice real estate law in Nova Scotia.

Responsibilities

• Oversee legal services for the operation of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
• Supervise the legal department and staff.
• Provide legal advice to the Mayor and Council members.

Skills

Municipal legal operations

Labour and employment law

Administrative law

Real estate law

Ability to communicate effectively

Education

University degree in Law

Current good standing with the NS Barristers’ Society

Notary Public in Nova Scotia

Job description

Position Title: Regional Solicitor
Department: Legal
Reporting to: Chief Administrative Officer
Bargaining Unit: Non-Union/Confidential

JOB SCOPE:

Directing and overseeing all legal services deemed necessary by Regional Council for the effective operation of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) and its Legal Department.

MAIN FUNCTIONS:

• Exercises direct supervision over CBRM Legal Department and staff.
• Provides leadership and direction in the development of the legal department and its services to Regional Council.
• Assures that assigned areas of responsibility are performed within budget; performs cost control activities; prepares annual budget request; assures effective and efficient use of budget funds, personnel, material, facilities, and time.
• Provides and/or arranges for all legal consultation necessary to the Mayor and members of Regional Council.
• Acts as Legal Counsel to the Chairman and Members of the Police Commission of the CBRM.
• Provides legal advice on municipal matters to CBRM staff.
• Plans, organizes, coordinates, supervises and evaluates services, staffing, and equipment of the legal department.
• Evaluates legal department needs and requirements and formulates short and long range plans and budgets to meet needs in all areas of responsibility.
• Coordinates the preparation and processing of assigned files for court action.
• Attends all sessions of Regional Council.
• Attends all Council Committee sessions as required.
• Reviews proposed and existing Municipal Bylaws for implementation and amendment purposes as deemed necessary.
• Arranges for and oversees defined prosecutorial services within the jurisdiction of the CBRM.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• University degree in Law from an accredited institution.
• Admission to, and in current good standing with, the NS Barristers’ Society.
• A duly qualified Notary Public in and for the Province of Nova Scotia.
• Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience in the practice of Law.
• Criminal Records Check verification is required as a condition of employment. Vulnerable sector check may also be required for those working with vulnerable populations.
• Medical assessments including but not limited to physical, vision, and hearing tests may be required. The assessments must show the capacity of performing tasks of the classification. This will take place at a later date.
• Authorized to practice real estate law in Nova Scotia.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Thorough knowledge and demonstrated ability to deal with responsibilities and operational functions of a municipal legal department.
• In depth knowledge and experience in the area of labour and employment law, administrative law, real estate law, prosecutions and civil litigation.
• Ability to effectively communicate with and address the concerns of the public on municipally related matters, both orally and in writing.
• Effective supervisory and public relations skills.
• Experience appearing before all levels of Nova Scotia Courts and administrative boards and tribunals.

READ INSTRUCTIONS BELOW:

** Please ensure copies of your education and any relevant certifications are included with your resume. Kindly email these documents to [e-mail] quoting the provided reference number.**

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Thursday, September 4th, 2025, 4:00PM

Applications quoting REFERENCE NO. 25.72-E can also be directed to:

OR through our drop-off box:

Main Floor, City Hall during regular working hours (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)