Judicial Counsel

Judicial Counsel

JOB DESCRIPTION

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Position Objective: 

To provide support to the Judges and relevant staff of the Court primarily through research and the preparation of legal opinions pertaining to matters before the Court and matters affecting the administrative structure of the Court to enable cases to be resolved well and in a timely manner.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research for the President and Judges on legal matters impacting the work of the Court.
• Provide support for the President and Judges in their work as the apex Caribbean court at the heart of improving the delivery of justice in the Caribbean region.                              
• Follow cases assigned from filing to disposition; prepare opinions and briefing notes; advise on new documents, next steps and keep the panel updated.
• Receive and study submissions and other court documents filed; provide detailed hearing notes, summary and opinions as cases move to judgments.
• Assist in the drafting and vetting of judgments and orders on behalf of the Court. 
• Assist with media releases, briefings to Communication and Information Department, editing and amending as directed and required.
• Vet and proofread judgments, transcripts, and other documents. 
• Check authorities cited in briefs and conduct independent research. 
• Prepare memoranda, letters and other documents as required. 
• Assist in the drafting and vetting of contracts on behalf of the Court. 
• Assist in the drafting of speeches for the Judges. 
• Assist in public education about the Court.
• Provide support at Court sittings. 
• Serve on committees as required. 
• Perform any other related duties as assigned from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of research methods, techniques and sources of electronic databases.
• Knowledge of International, regional and local courts and organisations.
• Knowledge of International Law. 
• Strong analytical skills and ability to make sound judgments.
• Excellent interpersonal, communications (oral and written) and presentation skills.
• Excellent customer service orientation skills.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite of programmes, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Ability to build trust, credibility and effective working relationships with all levels of staff within the organization and with external stakeholders.
• Ability to efficiently manage time, multi-task and function effectively in a fast paced and demanding environment.
• Ability to work in a team, and demonstrate the highest level of professional integrity, respect and diplomacy for colleagues and others.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
• Ability to use initiative appropriately on the job.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.

 Internal Relations: Liaises with:

• Judges 
• Other Judicial Counsel 
• Library Unit
• Information Technology 
• Communications & Information Department

External Relations:

Liaises with:

• Members of the legal fraternity
• Governmental agencies 
• Judiciaries in the region

Minimum Experience and Training:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Law with Upper Second-Class Honours at minimum from a recognised University.
• Admission to practise in any Court within the CARICOM region.
• At least three (3) years of experience in the practice of law
• Experience as a Judicial Research Counsel or equivalent role will be an asset.
• Working knowledge of a foreign language will be an asset.

SALARY BAND: 6: Base Salary US$2,825.13 (Free of Taxes)