Legal Counsel

Job Type & Hours: Temporary Full-time (36.25 hours per week)

Union Affiliation: Excluded

Posting Period: Posted until filled

Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing vacancy in our office.

The Ombudsman is an independent, non-partisan Officer of the Ontario Legislature whose role is to ensure that the provincial government and broader public sector serve people fairly, transparently, and respectfully. The Office of the Ontario Ombudsman reviews and resolves complaints about the administrative decisions and actions of more than 1,000 public sector and government bodies, in addition to French language services and the child protection sector.

About The Role

The Legal Unit works across all departments of the Office to help improve practices, policies, and legislation within the public sector. The work of the Office involves investigating serious and complex cases, preparing investigative reports, negotiating changes to practices, policies, and legislation, and providing legal advice and support to the Ombudsman’s operations.

Legal Counsel is responsible for delivering a range of legal services, including providing legal advice, assisting in investigations, conducting municipal open‑meeting investigations, and representing the Office in litigation.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advice and Research

• Conduct extensive legal research and provide legal advice and analysis to the Ombudsman and staff, primarily in the areas of administrative law, municipal law, and investigative procedure.
• Monitor and remain current about developments in relevant areas of the law.
• Provide ongoing education and legal guidance to staff across the Office on all areas of the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction.

Investigation of Systemic Matters and Open Meeting Complaints

• Working as part of a team, conduct investigations and assist in the preparation of investigative reports.
• Working as part of a team or independently to interview witnesses, obtain and analyze relevant documentation, and work within tight timelines.

Legal Representation

• Represent the Office in litigation as required, including preparation of pleadings and attendance before courts and tribunals.

Policy Development

• Contribute to the development of organizational policies to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Outreach

• Participate in outreach activities relating to the Ombudsman’s role and function.

What You Will Bring

Knowledge and experience

• Current license in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario, with a minimum of two (2) years of legal practice experience.
• Demonstrated experience in relevant areas of law such as administrative law, municipal law, education law, child protection law, Aboriginal law, language‑rights law, and/or experience conducting administrative investigations.
• Experience providing clear, practical legal advice and opinions on complex matters.

Preference may be given to candidates who have experience in one or more of the following areas

• Aboriginal law;
• Children and youth or child protection law; and/or
• Ability to work in French.

Required Skills And Competencies

• Excellent research and analytical skills with strong legal reasoning.
• Superior written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to prepare high‑quality, detailed investigative reports and legal materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage emotionally charged or sensitive situations.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities within established timelines.
• Professional judgment, discretion, and integrity.

Some travel may be required.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This role offers the opportunity to continue contributing to meaningful work that advances fairness, accountability, and public trust in government services across Ontario.

Internal mobility is an important part of how we build capability across the Office. Your experience, institutional knowledge, and commitment to our mandate are valued and make a difference.

We are committed to reconciliation, equality, diversity and inclusion, and accessibility, and to fostering an environment where everyone feels they belong. If you are interested in expanding your impact and believe your skills align with this role, we encourage you to apply!

Application Instructions

Please include a cover letter with your resume, describing your experience, achievements, and why you are interested in the role with Ombudsman Ontario.

We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects diverse talent, and we are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for every applicant. If you require an accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us, and we will work with you to support your needs.

Technology may be used to assist with managing applications. All candidates are reviewed by a Recruiter, and selection decisions are made by people—not automated systems.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.