Lawyer - Sanghar

The Lawyer will play a crucial role in advancing the Legal Aid Society’s mission to promote access to justice. This position involves representing clients in courts and tribunals, preparing legal documents, and upholding the highest standards of client service and legal practice. The Lawyer will diligently manage assigned cases, ensuring compliance with internal policies while contributing to the organization’s broader legal and social impact objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Client Representation and Communication: Represent clients ethically and effectively in court and tribunal proceedings. Conduct thorough client interviews to assess eligibility based on LAS litigation criteria and legal merit. Maintain regular communication with clients, providing timely updates on case progress and legal strategies. Ensure clients’ needs and concerns are accurately reflected in legal pleadings and courtroom advocacy.

Legal Drafting and Research: Prepare and draft legal pleadings, applications, affidavits, written statements, petitions, and other court submissions as required. Conduct comprehensive legal research to support litigation strategies, keeping current with relevant laws, precedents, and procedural rules. Ensure all legal documents meet professional standards and comply with LAS guidelines.

Case Management and Documentation: Maintain detailed case files, client notes, and supporting documentation. Regularly update the Case Management System (CMS) with case proceedings, hearing outcomes, and disposal details. Collaborate closely with Court Clerks and fellow lawyers to ensure case files are complete, organized, and current.

Stakeholder Engagement and Internal Compliance: Engage with LAS stakeholders, including community partners, government agencies, and court personnel as needed. Strictly adhere to the Litigation Department’s Yearly Policy Statement Directive and comply with all internal by-laws and operational protocols. Maintain ethical standards and client confidentiality at all times.

Reporting and Collaboration: Submit detailed progress reports on litigation activities to the Litigation Manager and the Program and Research Coordinator. Work collaboratively with Court Clerks to support case preparation and procedural filings. Participate in departmental meetings and contribute to enhancing litigation processes and client service delivery.

Other Responsibilities: Undertake additional assignments as directed by the Litigation Manager and Assistant Litigation Manager. Participate in training and capacity-building initiatives to improve personal and departmental performance. Ensure ongoing compliance with Litigation By-Laws and organizational policies.

Required Qualifications

Education & Licensing: A Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from a recognized institution is required. Enrollment or license to practice law is mandatory.

Experience: A minimum of two years of post-qualification litigation experience is essential. Experience in litigating family law cases is required. Experience working with vulnerable communities will be considered an asset.

Legal Skills: Strong legal research and drafting abilities are necessary. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to prepare accurate, well-structured legal pleadings and court documents. Familiarity with court procedures and litigation workflows is important.

Professional Competencies: A strong commitment to social justice and advocacy for marginalized communities is essential. The ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment is required. Excellent organizational skills for managing case files and deadlines are necessary. High ethical standards and strict adherence to confidentiality are mandatory.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Safeguarding Commitment

The Legal Aid Society is committed to diversity, equal employment opportunity, and creating an inclusive work environment where all individuals are treated fairly and recognized for their unique contributions. LAS prohibits any form of sexual exploitation and abuse, including sexual activity with minors, exchange of assistance for sexual favors, and sexual relationships between staff and beneficiaries, recognizing the inherent power imbalances involved. All staff and representatives are expected to uphold these safeguarding principles to maintain the integrity and credibility of LAS’s work.