Toronto Metropolitan University

Staff Lawyer – Legal Clinic | Housing Law & Student Supervision | Toronto, ON Help Shape the Future of Clinical Legal Education A leading Canadian law school is seeking an experienced Staff Lawyer to join its innovative Legal Clinic Programs team. This is a unique opportunity for a lawyer who is passionate about access to justice, housing law, student mentorship, and community-based legal services to help develop the next generation of legal professionals while serving equity-deserving communities. Working within an interdisciplinary legal clinic, you will combine legal advocacy, teaching, supervision, and community engagement to deliver meaningful legal services and contribute to the continued growth of an innovative clinical education program. About the Position The successful candidate will supervise law students engaged in clinical legal work while providing guidance on client representation, legal research, public legal education, and community advocacy initiatives. The practice will focus primarily on housing law , with opportunities to contribute in additional areas such as social assistance, record suspensions, human rights, immigration, refugee law, or other clinic practice areas based on experience and community needs. This is an exceptional opportunity for a lawyer who enjoys mentoring emerging legal professionals while advancing equitable access to justice. Key Responsibilities In this role you will: Supervise law students providing legal advice, client representation, and advocacy services. Mentor students through all stages of client files while ensuring high standards of professional responsibility and ethical legal practice. Review legal research, pleadings, correspondence, and advocacy materials prepared by students. Guide students using trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, client-centred, and culturally responsive approaches to legal service delivery. Represent or supervise representation of clients in housing and related legal matters where appropriate. Assist in developing and expanding innovative legal clinic programming and operational procedures. Contribute to curriculum development, student training, recruitment initiatives, and clinical education seminars. Build relationships with community organizations, legal clinics, advocacy groups, and public interest partners. Develop and deliver public legal education workshops and community outreach initiatives. Participate in law reform projects, policy development, and community-based legal initiatives. Support special projects, research initiatives, communications, and other clinic activities that strengthen community engagement and access to justice. Qualifications The ideal candidate will possess: A Juris Doctor (JD), LL.B., or equivalent law degree. Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario. At least four years of post-call legal experience. Practical experience in housing law and legal clinic practice. Additional experience in social assistance, criminal law, human rights, immigration, refugee law, or other poverty law areas is considered an asset. Demonstrated commitment to access to justice, equity, community lawyering, and social justice. Experience mentoring, supervising, teaching, or supporting students or junior legal professionals. Excellent advocacy, legal research, drafting, and communication skills. Strong organizational abilities with exceptional attention to detail. Confidence working with technology and adapting to new legal systems and software. The ability to collaborate effectively with students, faculty, community organizations, and interdisciplinary partners. Work Environment This position offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative legal education environment where innovation, inclusion, and community engagement are central to the clinic's mission. The successful candidate will help shape clinic programming while working alongside experienced lawyers, educators, and community partners dedicated to expanding access to justice throughout Toronto. The role follows a hybrid work model , with an expectation of approximately three to four days per week on campus , subject to operational requirements. Compensation Hiring range: Approximately $96,900 to $102,000 annually Salary scale: Up to approximately $125,000 Comprehensive employee benefits Professional development opportunities Collaborative academic environment Opportunity to influence the future of experiential legal education Commitment to Equity The law school is committed to building an inclusive academic and workplace community that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from individuals with lived experience and those who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility. Accommodation is available throughout every stage of the recruitment process in accordance with applicable accessibility and human rights legislation. Apply Today If you are an experienced Housing Lawyer , Clinic Lawyer , Staff Lawyer , Public Interest Lawyer , Legal Aid Lawyer , or Community Justice Lawyer who is passionate about legal education and mentoring future lawyers, we encourage you to apply. This opportunity offers the chance to combine legal practice, student supervision, public interest advocacy, and community engagement while helping shape one of Canada's most innovative clinical legal education programs.

For more than 75 years, Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly known as Ryerson University) has been shaping the next generation of leaders through its uniquely innovative, entrepreneurial and career-focused approach to higher education. Driven by bold leadership, cutting-edge research and a deep commitment to academic excellence, TMU collaborates with students, faculties, staff and partners to push boundaries, reimagine solutions and create meaningful change in an increasingly interconnected world. For a more in-depth understanding of our vision, core values and ongoing work, please see our academic plan TMU welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us in realizing the benefits of embedding these values into the work at every level and in every unit of the university. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada and to bring lived experiences to the work, we encourage applications from members of equity deserving groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in Canada, First Nations Peoples in the United States, racialized people, Black people, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Preference will be given to candidates with lived experiences as people from equity deserving groups, as well as experience working with these communities with which the University works every day. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and we welcome newcomers and immigrants to Canada. In April 2022, the university announced its new name of Toronto Metropolitan University. Learn more about our next chapter . Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) The Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) is responsible for providing strategic legal, compliance, privacy and risk advice, facilitating sound decision-making and processes, and enabling the University to carry out its academic mission in accordance with the University’s legal, governance and regulatory responsibilities. GCBS has responsibility for key University legal, governance and risk functions including legal services, privacy, access to information, compliance, enterprise risk management, and facilitation and coordination for the University’s Board of Governors. The Opportunity The Legal Counsel - Employment and Litigation will provide a full range of legal services to the University related to employment law, workplace and labour matters, administrative law, litigation, human rights, access / privacy law and dispute resolution under the direction of the General Counsel, Secretary of the Board of Governors and Chief Privacy Officer, arising from the business of the University. The successful candidate will provide expert legal support to senior leaders, faculties, schools and administrative units in support of strategic and operational decisions, conduct legal analysis and research, draft pleadings and other documents, and advise on risks and liabilities, in a timely and effective manner. Key Responsibilities Provides legal advice and opinions on labour and employment matters at the University, including workplace accommodation, occupational health and safety, faculty hiring/ employment, employment contracts, and collective agreement interpretation. Provides legal advice regarding employment-related disputes and general litigation involving University interests, including internal tribunal matters (i.e. advice to decision-makers), external tribunals (i.e. human rights applications), and courts. Drafts, reviews and revises a range of documents to represent the University, including pleadings, submissions to regulatory bodies, settlement documents, and correspondence to complainants/applicants/plaintiffs or their counsel. Ensures compliance and facilitates strategic and operational decision-making, through proactive legal advice, development of risk considerations, and expert legal counsel to university leadership. Participates in the development of precedents, workflow practices, and processes for routine matters and key legal operations. Provides training and education to internal units on evolving legal and compliance areas relating to the workplace, such as workplace investigations, employment practices, dispute resolution, and artificial intelligence. Leadership Competencies Leaders at TMU are required to demonstrate the following Leadership Competencies: Acts with Integrity: Demonstrates behaviors aligned with high ethical standards and personal integrity and acts in accordance with TMU values. Builds Relationships of Trust & Collaboration: Actively builds a culture of trust and fosters meaningful relationships. Leads Inclusively: Creates an inclusive environment where everyone is respected, recognized, empowered to achieve their potential, and valued for their differences. Demonstrates Organizational Acumen: Understands and respectfully navigates complex internal and external environments using sound judgment, diplomacy, and tact. Drives Vision & Results: Creates and implements a vision grounded in sound decision-making to achieve desired outcomes. Qualifications Successful completion of a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) or Juris Doctor (J.D) or equivalent law degree is required. Minimum of three (3) years of post-call experience in a law firm or in-house position or government legal department setting, including at least 2 years’ demonstrated experience in employment /labour law, including litigation, litigation management or dispute resolution exposure. Prior experience in human rights, administrative law, privacy / access would be an asset. Must be a member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario, which requires the ongoing undertaking of training and education to maintain and enhance the incumbent’s professional knowledge in their area of specialty, in addition to annual attitudes and professionalism training. Knowledge of legislation relevant to the post-secondary education sector and broader public sector is preferred. Excellent facilitation and mediation skills, with the ability to use these skills to develop solutions that tactfully and diplomatically respond to the needs and expectations of diverse groups at all levels. Strong analytical, drafting, and issue-spotting skills, with the ability to translate legal risk into practical advice. Strong organization skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple matters concurrently Strong judgment and decision-making skills; Excellent oral and written communication skills; Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to handle sensitive and confidential issues appropriately; Additional Information (MAC)

About Toronto Metropolitan At the intersection of mind and action, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is on a transformative path to become Canada’s leading comprehensive innovation university. Integral to this path is the placement of equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our institutional culture. Our current academic plan outlines each as core values and we work to embed them in all that we do. TMU welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us in realizing the benefits of embedding these values into the work at every level and in every unit of the university. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada and to bring lived experiences to the work, we encourage applications from members of equity deserving groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in Canada, First Nations Peoples in the United States, racialized people, Black people, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Preference will be given to candidates with lived experiences as people from equity deserving groups, as well as experience working with these communities with which the University works every day. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and we welcome newcomers and immigrants to Canada. In April 2022, the university announced its new name of Toronto Metropolitan University. Learn more about our next chapter . Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) The Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) is responsible for providing strategic legal, compliance, privacy, and risk advice, facilitating sound decision-making and processes, and enabling the University to carry out its academic mission in accordance with the University’s legal, governance and regulatory responsibilities. GCBS has responsibility for key University legal, governance and risk functions including legal services, privacy, access to information, compliance, enterprise risk management, and facilitation and coordination for the University’s Board of Governors. The Opportunity Reporting to the Assistant General Counsel, the Legal Counsel will provide counsel, legal and strategic advice on a broad range of legal issues with a focus on corporate / commercial law and supporting the business processes of the university. The successful candidate will provide legal advice and guidance to senior leaders, faculties, schools and administrative units to ensure compliance and facilitate strategic and operational decision-making in support of the University’s goals. They will draft and negotiate a variety of contracts, conduct legal analysis and research, advise on commercial transactions including leasing, construction and procurement, and advise on regulatory compliance matters in a timely and effective manner. Key Responsibilities Drafts, reviews, and negotiates a broad range of corporate and commercial agreements, including service agreements, funding agreements, leases, construction contracts, technology and license agreements, procurement documents, partnership agreements, and non-disclosure agreements. Ensures compliance and facilitates strategic and operational decision-making through proactive legal advice, development of risk considerations and expert legal counsel to university leadership. Monitors, researches, and provides updates on legislative requirements and legal trends affecting the University. Serves as a trusted strategic partner, supporting the General Counsel, leaders and administrators to leverage opportunities and anticipate and manage risk and disputes. In consultation with the General Counsel/Chief Privacy Officer, provides legal advice on privacy, data, and FIPPA-related matters. Participates in the development of precedents, workflow practices, and processes for routine matters and key legal operations. Qualifications Successful completion of a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) or Juris Doctor (J.D) or equivalent law degree is required. Minimum of three (3) years of experience practicing law in a law firm or in-house or government legal department setting, with demonstrated experience practicing law in the required areas of expertise. Demonstrated experience in negotiating, drafting and reviewing contracts and advising on corporate/commercial law. Experience with privacy law, procurement, intellectual property is an asset. Knowledge of legislation relevant to the post-secondary education sector and broader public sector is preferred. Must be a member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario. Strong ability and experience in drafting accurate, complete and persuasive legal documents such as pleadings, legal responses, memoranda and correspondence. Exceptional analytical skills with strong attention to detail, judgment and decision making skills. Solid organizational skills, including time management to manage multiple projects and competing priorities. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Sound judgement, including the ability to handle sensitive and confidential manners with tact. Exceptional customer service skills to work with a variety of internal and external stakeholders. Additional Information (MAC) Position Number(s) 20004236 Reports To Assistant General Counsel Department General Counsel Office Employee Group MAC Vacancy Type FTCE - this is an existing position Work Location Hybrid (3 days in-person/on-campus and remaining days remote), based on operational requirements and subject to change Start Date ASAP End Date N/A Hours of Work 36.25 Grade D62 Salary Scale $106,21 - $169,666 Hiring Salary Range $124,146 - $137,940 and will be commensurate based on the successful candidate’s qualifications TA Specialist Laurie Shemavonian Posting Date May 20, 2025 Application Close Date June 5, 2025 Equivalent experience or a combination of equivalent experience and education may be accepted in place of education. As part of the selection process, candidates may be required to complete an occupational assessment. Applications will only be accepted online through Toronto Metropolitan University's career site. We will provide an accessible experience for applicants, students, employees, and members of the Toronto Metropolitan University community. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the recruitment process. If you have restrictions that need to be accommodated to fully participate in any phase of the recruitment process, please submit your request through the AskHR webform . All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.  

About Toronto Metropolitan At the intersection of mind and action, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is on a transformative path to become Canada’s leading comprehensive innovation university. Integral to this path is the placement of equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our institutional culture. Our current academic plan outlines each as core values and we work to embed them in all that we do. TMU welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us in realizing the benefits of embedding these values into the work at every level and in every unit of the university. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada and to bring lived experiences to the work, we encourage applications from members of equity deserving groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in Canada, First Nations Peoples in the United States, racialized people, Black people, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Preference will be given to candidates with lived experiences as people from equity deserving groups, as well as experience working with these communities with which the University works every day. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and we welcome newcomers and immigrants to Canada. In April 2022, the university announced its new name of Toronto Metropolitan University. Learn more about our next chapter . Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) The Office of the General Counsel and Board Secretariat (GCBS) is responsible for providing strategic legal, compliance, privacy and risk advice, facilitating sound decision-making and processes, and enabling the University to carry out its academic mission in accordance with the University’s legal, governance and regulatory responsibilities. GCBS has responsibility for key University legal, governance and risk functions including legal services, privacy, access to information, compliance, enterprise risk management, insurance, and facilitation and coordination for the University’s Board of Governors. The Opportunity Reporting to the General Counsel, Secretary of the Board of Governors, and Chief Privacy Officer, the Legal Counsel will provide legal services to the University related to administrative law, litigation, human rights, labour / employment, privacy / access and policy, arising from the business of the University. The successful incumbent will provide advice to senior leaders, faculties, schools and administrative units in support of strategic and operational decisions, conduct legal analysis and research, draft pleadings and other documents, and advise on risks and liabilities in matters relating to students, trainees, faculty and staff in a timely and effective manner. Key Responsibilities Provides legal advice regarding potential or actual litigation involving University interests, including internal tribunal matters (i.e. student conduct, academic appeals), external tribunals (i.e. human rights applications), and courts. Drafts, reviews and revises a range of documents to represent the University, including pleadings, submissions to regulatory bodies, settlement documents, letters to complainants/applicants/plaintiffs or their counsel. Advises on administrative law principles, and supports the investigation processes under University policies and applicable legislation. In consultation with the General Counsel/Chief Privacy Officer, provides legal advice on privacy and FIPPA-related matters, including submissions to and appeals before the Information and Privacy Commissioner. Provides legal advice and opinions on labour and employment matters at the University, including workplace accommodation, occupational health and safety, faculty hiring/ employment, employment contracts and collective agreement interpretation. Researches, identifies, and provides updates on case law, legislative requirements and legal trends affecting the University, including, drafting memoranda for senior University leadership. Participates in the development of precedents, workflow practices, and processes for routine matters and key legal operations. Qualifications Successful completion of a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) or Juris Doctor (J.D) or equivalent law degree is required. Minimum of three (3) years of experience practicing law in a law firm or in-house or government legal department setting, including at least two (2) years’ prior experience in administrative law, litigation or litigation management. Prior experience in labour / employment law, human rights, insurance and privacy/access would be an asset. Must be a member in good standing of the Law Society of Ontario Strong ability and experience in drafting accurate, complete and persuasive legal documents such as pleadings, legal responses, memoranda and correspondence. Knowledge of legislation relevant to the post-secondary education sector and broader public sector is preferred. Exceptional analytical skills with strong attention to detail, judgment and decision making skills. Solid organizational skills, including time management to manage multiple projects and competing priorities. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Sound judgement, including the ability to handle sensitive and confidential manners with tact. Exceptional customer service skills to work with a variety of internal and external stakeholders. Additional Information (MAC) Position Number(s) 20001993 Reports To Associate/Assistant General Counsel Department Office of the General Counsel Vacancy Type FTCE Employee Group MAC Work Location Hybrid (3 days in-person/on-campus and remaining days remote), based on operational requirements and subject to change Start Date ASAP End Date N/A Hours of Work 36.25 Grade D62 Salary Scale $106,21- $169,666 Hiring Salary Range $124,146 - $137,940 TA Specialist Laurie Shemavonian Posting Date October 21, 2024 Application Close Date November 15, 2024 An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. As part of the selection process, candidates may be required to complete an occupational assessment. Applications will only be accepted online through Toronto Metropolitan University's career site. We will provide an accessible experience for applicants, students, employees, and members of the Toronto Metropolitan University community. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the recruitment process. If you have restrictions that need to be accommodated to fully participate in any phase of the recruitment process, please submit your request through the AskHR webform . All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.