Legal Officer II

The incumbent is required to perform professional legal work in a Ministry / Department. Duties include appearing in court, providing legal advice and opinions, and drafting legal documents on matters involving the Ministry / Department. Depending on assignment, the incumbent may be required to perform some or the full range of the duties of the position.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Represents the Ministry / Department in court and before tribunals.
• Advises on legal issues relating to the administration, interpretation and enforcement of laws relative to the Ministry’s / Department’s operations.
• Drafts complex legal documents including contracts, leases and agreements.
• Provides legal opinions and briefs in respect of complex legal issues.
• Prepares instructions for submission to state central legal agencies on legal matters involving the state.
• Performs court cases preparation work such as interviewing witnesses, taking depositions and preparing pretrials briefs and draft pleadings for filing.
• Assists in planning, directing, coordinating and formulating legal policies and programmes of the Ministry / Department.
• Conducts research and analysis, and reports on legal matters pertinent to the Ministry’s / Department’s operation.
• Conducts or participates in negotiations / consultations with external / internal parties.
• Participates in or conducts the review of existing legislation, rules and regulations related to the Ministry / Department and recommends / drafts appropriate amendments.
• Represents the Ministry / Department on committees and meetings and other fora.
• Prepares Cabinet / Ministerial Notes, memoranda, letters and other documents on legal matters.
• Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge

• Considerable knowledge of the Laws of Trinidad and Tobago.
• Knowledge of legal principles and practices.
• Knowledge of the laws and regulations pertinent to the Ministry’s / Department’s operations.
• Knowledge of legal drafting principles and practices.
• Knowledge of legal research skills and techniques.
• Knowledge of the court procedures and practices and of rules of evidence.

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Skill in the use of personal computers.
• Skill in drafting legal documents / instruments.
• Skill in negotiation and mediation.
• Ability to use e-Government technology platforms.
• Ability to use the internet for research purposes.
• Ability to analyse and interpret laws and legal issues.
• Ability to present and explain statements of fact and the law, and to argue clearly and logically, orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees and members of the public.

Experience and Training

• Minimum of four (4) years’ experience as a practicing Attorney at law.
• Bachelor of Law Degree from a recognised institution.
• Legal Education Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution.
• Admission to practice law in Trinidad and Tobago.

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