December 29, 2022| EXTERNAL/INTERNAL JOB POSTING 

COMPETITION NO. 22-153

Position: Family Law Advocate(s) – Fulltime and/or part time

Location: Newton (Sources Legal Resource Centre)

Hours: 35

We are looking for Family Law Advocate(s) to join our Sources Advocacy team! This (These) individual(s) must have excellent communication skills, commitment to social justice and be a team player.

About Sources

SOURCES is a community-based non-profit organization providing support and hope to communities in the Lower Mainland, on Vancouver Island, and across Northern BC.  Sources strives to create vibrant and resilient communities through support to adults, children, youth, and families facing challenges in life such as mental health, disability, poverty, substance use, and conflict. We support our communities through leadership, education, and volunteerism.

Sources is committed to learning about, celebrating and incorporating Indigenous knowledge into our practices as we continue our work in truth and reconciliation. People of all races, cultures, ethnicities, LGBTQ2S+, and abilities are welcomed to work with us. We value diversity, respect, and collaboration as we promote our mission: social wellness for our community.

Family Law Advocacy Services

The program assists in matters of separation and divorce, guardianship and parenting arrangements, child and spousal support and protection orders. We support individuals in navigating the family justice system by providing legal information, referrals, court preparation, and emotional support. We assist with both provincial and Supreme Court matters.

Responsibilities:

Direct Service:

• Screen and identify Individual’s legal issues according to program guidelines and funding mandate.
• Assist staff lawyer with direct delivery of legal services
• Provide emotional support, legal resources, information and appropriate referrals by telephone, website, email, and appointment.
• Assess client information and determine eligibility for referral to Legal Aid.
• Support individuals through the court system, including if appropriate court preparation and accompaniment.
• Build and maintain a positive working relationship with other advocates, lawyers, Legal Services Society, and other relevant groups and individuals.
• Screen and refer individuals to Pro Bono lawyers and Pro Bono clinic.
• Follow-up with lawyers/clients regarding progress/outcome of case.

Administration

• Research current policies and procedures, laws, and case law etc. to keep current with various client issues.
• Ensure legal resources are kept current.
• Maintain complete and accurate program records and statistics for all program activities.
• Perform related administrative practices including record keeping, file management and reporting to accredited standards.
• Provide training and public legal educational when necessary.

Qualifications:

• Post-Secondary education/or equivalent training and education in Criminology, Psychology, Sociology or Family Law or a related social services program.

• Two years’ experience working in a related field.
• Good understanding of Family Law and working knowledge of Poverty Law and Immigration Law.
• Knowledge of community resources and other social service agencies.
• Self-motivated with the ability to run an organized caseload.
• Ability to speak Punjabi, Hindi or Urdu is an asset.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals who are experiencing a wide range of sensitive issues.
• Must have a valid BC Driver’s License and access to a vehicle.

Start Date: January 09, 2023.

Benefits (if applicable):

• 100% employer paid coverage for extended health and dental
• Long term disability, life insurance, critical illness insurance, accidental death & dismemberment coverage
• Employee & Family Assistance plan
• Pension plan
• Generous paid time off, starting at 3 weeks

Closing Date: Until filled.  

How to apply: Please email your cover letter and resume to sources.family.law.careers@gmail .com. Please include where you saw this job posting in your email. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, thank you.