The mandate of the Department of Justice is to administer justice, including policing, community justice, victims services and corrections in the Northwest Territories. This mandate will be carried out in a manner which respects community and indigenous values and encourages communities to assume increasing responsibilities. Located in Yellowknife and reporting to the Executive Director, Legal Aid Commission of the Northwest Territories (NWT), as the Staff Lawyer III
- Criminal , you will provide legal advice and representation in criminal law matters of increasing complexity across the Northwest Territories. This role involves independent case management, court appearances at all levels, and contributing to the Legal Aid Commission's mandate to deliver accessible, efficient justice services. You will also provide mentorship, legal opinions on funding decisions, and supporting public legal education initiatives in a northern and culturally diverse environment. Independently manage and conduct complex criminal law cases with limited supervision. Represent clients in Territorial Court, Supreme Court, and Court of Appeal, including circuit court travel across the NWT. Provide legal advice and representation to individuals charged with criminal offences. Conduct criminal appeals and prepare legal arguments, motions, and court documents. Provide detailed legal opinions on legal aid applications, particularly for appeals. Oversee and maintain accurate client file documentation in compliance with procedures.



Supervise and act as mentor to more junior staff lawyers or as a principal to articling students as directed by the Executive Director. Assist with public legal education as instructed by the Executive Director. Solid expertise in Canadian and Northwest Territories criminal law. Understanding of Indigenous and northern issues, with experience working with Indigenous communities. Ability to work independently in a demanding and complex legal environment. Capacity to manage sensitive cases involving social challenges such as violence, mental health, and substance use. Law Degree and membership in the NWT Bar combined with five (5) years of experience as legal counsel practicing in the criminal law area, experience working in a legal aid clinic environment and experience in managing other lawyers and support staff. Candidates must clearly identify their eligibility in order to receive priority consideration under the Indigenous Employment Policy. Criminal Records Check Candidates must provide a satisfactory criminal record check.
Diversity and Inclusion If you have a disability and you require support during the hiring process, you are encouraged to identify your needs if you are contacted for an assignment or interview so that you may be accommodated during the hiring process. The salary range for this position is from $71.44 per hour to $85.33 per hour (approximately $139,308
- $166,394) plus an annual Northern Allowance of $3,700. #

📌 Staff lawyer (Yellowknife)
🏢 Gov
📍 Yellowknife