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Type of Employment: Permanent Location: 302-15 Kennedy Street, Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia Salary: Staff Lawyer Pay Plan Policy – Based on Relevant Experience Closing Date: May 5, 2026, at 12:00 pm Who we are The Nova Scotia Legal Aid Commission (NSLAC) delivers legal aid services across the province, providing some level of help to all Nova Scotians with a focus on assisting those who are vulnerable and historically disadvantaged. Our practice areas include criminal, family, and social justice law.

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This Managing

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Lawyer role offers a unique chance to combine a meaningful client practice with people leadership in a regional office setting. Based in Port Hawkesbury, the position offers opportunities to shape service delivery, work closely with justice partners, and lead a team and practice that responds directly to local needs. Port Hawkesbury also offers a welcoming coastal lifestyle with everyday amenities, outdoor recreation nearby, and convenient access to both Cape Breton and mainland Nova Scotia.

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We value a workplace where diversity, in all its forms, is encouraged and recognized for its contribution to a more creative, rewarding workplace that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens and communities we serve. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented and equity-deserving groups such as Indigenous Peoples, African Nova Scotians and other racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and women in underrepresented roles. If you are a member of one or more of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self‑identify in your electronic application, cover letter,



or resume.

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Primary

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Functions The Managing Lawyer is a practicing lawyer and people leader responsible for NSLAC’s Criminal/Family Office in Port Hawkesbury. You will maintain a mixed family and criminal caseload while leading a team of Staff Lawyers and Legal Professionals and ensuring services are aligned with NSLAC’s mandate, policies, and priorities. The role also serves as a key resource to colleagues and leadership, builds strong relationships with local justice partners, and is supported by NSLAC’s executive leadership team and a collaborative network of Managing Lawyer peers.

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Key Responsibilities Lead day‑to‑day operations for the Port Hawkesbury office, ensuring high‑quality legal services aligned with NSLAC’s mandate. Coach, supervise, and support regional office staff, setting clear expectations and fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace. Contribute to NSLAC’s broader leadership by providing input on service delivery, resourcing, and continuous improvement, and ensuring the implementation of NSLAC policies and Executive Office direction.

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Ideal

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Attributes and Skills Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop professionals within multi-disciplinary teams, creating an environment where staff are motivated and able to do their best.



Strong practice management skills, including planning, prioritizing, and balancing client service, court obligations, and people leadership. Sound judgement and effective decision‑making skills in a high‑volume, public‑facing environment.

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Resource and financial acumen, including allocating work and managing budgets and resources to achieve goals. Excellent communication, facilitation, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills with a proven track record for securing the energy and commitment of others. Comfort with technology and continuous improvement to support modern legal service delivery.

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Ability to make sound decisions that balance quality and timeliness with a full appreciation for their impact beyond own area of responsibility.

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Experience in presenting legal information and interpretation to both legal and lay audiences, especially in providing written submissions both within the organization and to external authorities. Strong interpersonal skills with confidence working interculturally and building trust‑based relationships with clients, colleagues, and community and justice partners.

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Qualifications Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) Degree. Practicing member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society (and/or any other provincial law society), preferably with a minimum of five years’ experience. Extensive experience at every level of court. If you are a talented, conscientious lawyer ready to step into leadership – and you value meaningful work in a close‑knit community – we would like to hear from you.

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📌 Managing Lawyer Position - Port Hawkesbury
🏢 Nova Scotia Legal Aid
📍 Port Hawkesbury