File management
Company Bio
Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients.
As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law.
If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.
Primary function This role is responsible for providing services to clients at the Toronto South Detention Centre in Toronto. The Institutional Duty Counsel will work in conjunction with duty counsel at court as part of a team to ensure that remote court appearances are meaningful, effective, and do not lead to a diminished expectation of reasonable bail or resolution for accused persons. The successful candidate will also provide virtual criminal duty counsel services for the TSDC and the Toronto Courts.
Home Location: Toronto South Detention Centre (160 Horner Ave)
Secondary Locations: Toronto East Detention Centre (55 Civic Rd)
Reporting to: Manager, Legal Services
Key accountabilities Reviewing and updating bail worksheets, DC notes, and other file materials prepared by DC at court
Liaising between the client and DC at court
Preparing the client for bail hearings and/or guilty pleas
Calling potential sureties, interviewing them for suitability, and arranging for their attendance in court if necessary
Making referrals to appropriate organizations for bail or in preparation of a guilty plea
Reviewing disclosure and providing summary legal advice to clients
Assisting clients in filling out forms (e.g. for video bail or for organizational supports)
Assisting with Legal Aid Applications
Providing general advice on legal aid processes such as certificate appeals
Negotiating with the Crown Bail Vettor with regards to a bail plan or resolution




Engaging with both local and non-local stakeholders in ongoing conversation about developing the role of duty counsel assisting from institutions (e.g. facilitate and/or attend regular stakeholder meetings on how to improve remand and bail times locally)
Liaising with detention centre staff to facilitate client service
File management
Other duties as assigned
Required Skills & Experience Lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario
Demonstrated experience in representing clients with complex legal issues including conducting bail hearings and guilty pleas
Experience conducting bail reviews is an asset
Experience assessing ‘fitness to stand trial’ in the criminal context
Experience advising clients on the mental health provisions of the Criminal Code
Experience representing clients on Fitness Hearings and Treatment Order applications
Willingness to conduct ‘fitness to stand trial’ assessments and conduct Fitness Hearings and Treatment Order applications from the institution
Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, criminal law procedures, rules of evidence, and case law
Practical understanding of the Rules of Professional Conduct
Ability to work independently and unsupervised in a fast-paced environment while also demonstrating collaboration and teamwork with colleagues and other stakeholders
Proven judgment and analytical ability to determine appropriate legal remedies
Demonstrated commitment to client service and relationship building skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Proven ability to exercise sound judgment, particularly when encountering stressful situations
Well-developed interview skills including a proven ability to identify vulnerable clients so that the appropriate service and referrals can be made




Proven ability to learn and adapt to recent or modified policies and procedures
Proven ability to document client files including advice to clients and instructions
Significant knowledge of LAO priorities, policies, and procedures
Demonstrated ability to use the latest communication technologies including tablets and smartphones and ability to utilize video conferencing platforms in order to deliver services virtually
Must have intermediate knowledge of the following Microsoft programs: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Familiarity and competence with proper maintenance of computer information databases such as PeopleSoft
Final candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal record check.
This position is collectively represented by the The Society of United Professionals and the successful incumbent will be governed by the provisions of a collective agreement and subject to union dues.
Equity Statement Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a safe culture and work environment that dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity‑seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team.

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📌 Institutional Duty Counsel (12 months) (Ontario)
🏢 Legal Aid Ontario
📍 Ontario