Senior Counsel, Criminal

Union: The Society Job Number: J1026-0794 Job Title: Senior Counsel, Criminal Job Type: Permanent Full Time City, Province, Country: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Job Location: Toronto Job Category: Legal Open Positions: 1 Posting Date: November 5, 2026 Closing Date: November 19, 2026 Salary: $95,678.79 - $163,502.20 /Year Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients. As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law. If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below. Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a safe culture and work environment that dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team. **Primary function** -------------------- The Senior Counsel Program has provincial scope and complements LAO’s existing mixed model of private bar and duty counsel services by providing eligible clients with another option for high quality full representation. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting vulnerable clients on a wide range of criminal matters, up to and including full trial representation. Senior Counsel also accept court appointments, and facilitate mentorship opportunities for staff lawyers and private counsel to further enhance access to justice. Home location: Toronto and the GTA Secondary/Tertiary Locations: Hamilton, Milton, Brantford Reports to: Director and Manager, Legal Services – Senior Counsel Program **Key accountabilities** ------------------------ * Work in conjunction with existing LAO staff lawyers, paralegals and Legal Aid Workers (LAWs) including in respect of resp