Job Description
OVERVIEW
JOB PURPOSE:
The Investigator is an investigation specialist assigned to the planning and conduct of timely, consistent investigations working independently or as a member of a team, under the provisions of The Law Society Act, covering a wide range of issues relating to (i) the professional conduct of Licensees, (ii) the unauthorized provision of legal services by non-Licensees and (iii) the good character of Licensee applicants. This includes development of disposition proposals in keeping with the Law Society’s public interest mandate, legislation, by-laws and policies, and where investigations files fail to reach settlement and/or are subject to disciplinary action, may involve coordinating work Litigation Services staff as well as testimony in regulatory and court proceedings. Investigation files may deal with political and media sensitive issues, subject to full public scrutiny.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
- A college diploma or university degree in Business or Law, or equivalent legal and/or accounting training and/or investigative experience.
- A minimum of five (5) years’ independent file management experience in a law office or accounting environment.
- Investigation experience derived from work in a law enforcement, regulatory or government environment, preferred.
Solid understanding of the Law Society’s mandate, services, legislation and policies, or willingness to learn.
Knowledge of interview and investigation methodologies, principles, and practices.
Trauma informed is considered an asset.
Knowledge of current trends and developments in investigative techniques, and their practical applications.
Experience in testifying.
- Experience investigating allegations of sexual misconduct is considered an asset.
Knowledge of Law Society accounting and bookkeeping.
Knowledge of a variety of dispute resolution techniques and their appropriate application.
Expressive and persuasive in both spoken and written language in facilitating resolution and disposition of complaints.
Concise, well organized writing skills in the preparation of a full range of investigative documents and memoranda, which may form the basis for disclosure to Discipline Counsel and agreed statement of fact.
Superior analytical ability.
Able to reason through complex spoken and written information.
Computer proficiency, including familiarity with word processing software, data processing, accounting system software (general, trust) and internet search capabilities.
Specific familiarity with Microsoft One Drive and SharePoint and Adobe Pro are definite assets.
Broad understanding of the application of technology preferably in a regulatory / legal environment
Travel:
- The incumbent is required to work out of their home office and on an as needed basis, attend at licensees’ offices.
- Incumbent is required to attend their official work office as required and directed.
- There are occasional requirements for overnight travel in the conduct of investigations.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
Client / Customer Service Delivery
- Investigates serious matters, including:-Professional misconduct including sexual misconduct, Criminal allegations, Conduct unbecoming, Competence, Licensing, Capacity, Unauthorized practice
- Prepares case plans, determining investigation strategies and evidence required to prove allegations
- Independently conducts investigations in accordance with case plans
- Identifies risk and conducts ongoing risk analysis
- Assesses the need for and recommends a variety of appropriate responses including: Establishing practice controls
- Obtaining search and seizure orders
- Identifying potential candidates for remedial diversion initiatives
- Seeking out opportunities for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms where appropriate
- Devises and implements plans of supervision with respect to member’s practices
- Communicates with Law Society staff, complainants and members regarding the investigation process and disposition of cases, maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive information at all times
- Interviews licensees, witnesses, complainants, and other relevant sources
- Conducts evidence search and seizure and documents file information and material evidence using Law Society case management software
- Develops case files to prosecutorial and evidentiary standards, including Investigation Reports and Investigator Key Documents
- Monitors Licensees facing charges in the criminal justice system or other proceedings or before other regulatory bodies
- Assists staff from the Litigation Services department in the preparation of cases for hearings, testifying as a witness at legal and regulatory proceedings as required.
Policy/Regulatory Compliance
- Follows procedural and administrative requirements with respect to searches and seizures, including the handling, cataloguing, security, and control of evidence gathered during an investigation.
- Records and produces witness statements in accordance with the Rules and cooperates with Litigation Services’ staff in the preparation of cases for hearing, and testifying as a witness, as required.
Performance Goals, Targets and Standards
- Contributes to the development of standardized practices, guidelines and procedures in the appropriate conduct and resolution of investigation files.
- Conducts own caseload, and works with other members of Investigation Services, as well as colleagues in Intake and Resolution and Litigation Services to establish, monitor and continuously improve processes and case management performance targets.
- Manages a varied and substantial investigation caseload.
Policy Development
Identifies, informs, and advises the Director and Team Managers of Investigation Services of the need for policy development and/or policy change(s) based on analysis of legal issues encountered during investigations.
As a domain expert, continually assesses policies and procedures, and identifies opportunities for policy development or change in regulation procedures.
Participates in the development of policy and processes when assigned.
Team Membership
- Works closely with the Team Manager and Investigation Services staff in the conduct of coordinated investigative and regulatory response to identified issues involving subjects of investigations.
- Promotes the sharing and transfer of knowledge and information amongst team members.
Relationship and Alliance Building
- Develops and maintains mutually beneficial relationships with law enforcement, government agencies, and various levels of the Federal and Provincial Judicial systems as well and financial institutions to facilitate the exchange of information.
WORKING ARRANGEMENT
The Law Society has introduced a Distributed Workforce Model to leverage flexibility and agility, and to maximize employee productivity and engagement. Work arrangements will be determined by role and departmental requirements. The working arrangement for this position has been classified as primarily remote, with a requirement to attend the office on an occasional basis. The specific application of this will be communicated to applicants contacted during the recruitment process.
OUR COMMITMENT
The Law Society of Ontario is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from persons representing the diversity of our community. We are committed to creating an accessible, barrier-free and inclusive workplace and are committed to continuing compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Please make any requirement you may have for accommodation during the recruitment process known when contacted.
If you are unable to apply to this position due to the requirement for an accommodation of any kind, please email us at hr@lso.ca or call 416-947-3475. We appreciate all interest and will directly contact candidates under consideration.