Legal Counsel

The MIABC is looking for lawyers with experience in litigation to join our in-house legal team comprised of four Legal Counsel and two Legal Assistants.  As Legal Counsel for the MIABC, you will defend a wide variety of claims brought against local governments and handle all aspects of claims from early investigation through trial.  This is the perfect role for you if you are looking for an opportunity to work in-house in a dynamic environment, handle your own files, embrace a principled approach to litigation and conduct trial work while maintaining a reasonable work-life balance. We are filling two full-time positions and are also open to considering a part-time position equivalent to 3 days per week.

• Gathers and assesses all necessary information and evidence during the investigation of a claim.
• Co-ordinates with, advises and instructs adjusters, members and experts.
• Prepares pleadings.
• Prepares legal opinions and reports.
• Communicates with members to advise on the progress of litigation.
• Analyzes and sets reserves.
• Prepares witnesses and experts.
• Prepares for attending examinations for discoveries, chambers applications, settlement conferences, hearings and mediations.
• Negotiates fair settlements when practical.
• Prepares for and conducts trials at all levels of court.
• Follows MIABC policies and procedures.
• Cooperates and collaborates with other employees and members in a spirit of teamwork and collegiality.
• Maintains abreast of relevant legislation to MIABC members through continuing education, review of legal publications, etc.
• Promotes and represents MIABC as a professional association. Attends MIABC, member and/or industry events, conferences, etc.
• Occasionally prepares and delivers educational seminars for members on legal issues through webinars, regional seminars and conference sessions.
• Participates in the MIABC’s internal enterprise risk management program.
• Other miscellaneous duties and special projects as assigned.

The successful candidate will have:

• At least 1 year of experience in litigation;
• A license to practice law in British Columbia;
• Demonstrated commitment to client service;
• A high degree of integrity and ethical behavior;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both in public and private settings;
• The ability to handle pressure in a time constrained environment, managing multiple cases and deadlines;
• Attention to detail and accuracy; and
• The ability to work efficiently as part of a team as well as independently.

Position Requirements/Qualifications:

• Practicing member of the Law Society of BC or eligibility for membership.
• Litigation and trial experience.
• Superior writing skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in both public and private settings
• Ability to handle pressure in a time constrained environment.  Ability to prioritize and manage multiple cases and deadlines.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 programs (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.).
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

This job posting/description describes the general nature of the duties and requirements of this job.  It is not intended to be an exhaustive list or to limit the supervisor’s ability to modify work assignments as appropriate. 

Our commitment to you

The MIABC believes in a culture rooted in collaboration and growth.  Our team is enthusiastic, innovative, diverse, and driven to enrich the lives of our members and each other. We promise to support you and provide you with meaningful challenges and opportunities to shine. From competitive salaries, benefit packages and professional development opportunities, to work life balance with flex days and flexible working opportunities, we offer our teammates a working environment in which they feel supported, encouraged and empowered to take risks and share their perspectives openly and freely.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

Equity is entrenched in the MIABC’s values and guiding principles. We celebrate, empower, and support the unique differences our staff, board and members bring to our organization. We strive to be a workforce and organization that is representative of the diversity of the communities in British Columbia.

Our perks:

• Life insurance, health and dental benefits;
• Participation in the defined benefit Municipal Pension Plan;
• The ability to work remotely two days a week;
• 3 weeks vacation;
• Optional participation in a flex day plan allowing for 18 flex days per calendar year;
• Legislative statutory holidays off as well as Easter Monday, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Boxing Day;
• A centrally located office next to transit, shopping, restaurants and the false creek seawall;
• Free parking on a first come first serve basis, with EV charging stations;
• Secure private bike storage;
• Monthly allowance for employees who choose to use their personal mobile phone for business;
• Professional development days;
• Mentorship programs; and
• Staff social activities.