File management

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 versatile and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.

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.

Reporting to: Manager, Legal Services

Reviewing and updating bail worksheets, DC notes, and other file materials prepared by DC at court

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

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)

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

Sound knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms,



criminal law procedures, rules of evidence, and case law

Proven judgment and analytical ability to determine appropriate legal remedies

Demonstrated commitment to client service and relationship building skills

Proven ability to learn and adapt to new or modified policies and procedures

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.

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.

📌 Managing Counsel (Toronto)
🏢 Legal Aid Ontario
📍 Toronto