Job Title: Research Assistant – Legal Equity Project
Location: Ontario, Canada (Remote and/or In-person as required)
Duration: Part-time (flexible hours)
Compensation: Paid (negotiable based on experience)
About the Project:
The "Unbarring the Bar: Ensuring Fair Access to Justice for Internationally Trained Lawyers" project is a groundbreaking research initiative focused on addressing systemic barriers and biases within the lawyer licensing process in Ontario. The project aims to ensure a fair, transparent, and equitable path for internationally trained lawyers to enter the legal profession, removing discriminatory practices and promoting public trust in the administration of justice.
Position Overview:
Looking to connect & collaborate with motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistants who are passionate about legal equity, diversity, and inclusion to assist with the execution of this project. Research assistants will conduct primary and secondary research, analyze data, and help draft reports, policy recommendations, and advocacy materials.
Key Responsibilities:
Assist in conducting literature reviews, reviewing relevant legal frameworks, and identifying key issues in the licensing process for internationally trained lawyers.
Conduct interviews or surveys with stakeholders, including internationally trained lawyers, law society representatives, legal practitioners, and academics.
Compile and analyze quantitative and qualitative data from research findings.
Draft research reports, policy documents, and recommendations for improving fairness in the legal licensing process.
Assist in preparing presentations, advocacy materials, and public communication pieces regarding the project findings.
Collaborate with project team members to ensure the integrity and quality of the research process.
Provide support for the development of workshops, seminars, and other events aimed at promoting the findings and recommendations of the project.
Qualifications:
Current law students or recent law graduates (including in any legal field or area I.e law clerks, paralegals, legal assistants, law office or law firm staff)(Canadian or international background preferred).
Strong research skills and the ability to critically analyze legal issues.
Demonstrated interest in diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly as it pertains to the legal profession.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of the Ontario legal system, the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) process, and international law is a plus.
Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies is an asset.
Desired Traits:
Passionate about legal reform and advocating for access to justice.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
Sensitivity to the challenges faced by internationally trained lawyers and underrepresented groups within the legal profession.
How to Join:
Please send a expression of interest and/or brief purpose statement to jglaw@consultant.com
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ individuals, who are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace that values diversity and promotes equal opportunity for all.
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