Animal Justice is a national animal law advocacy organization, leading the legal fight for animals in Canada. Our lawyers work to pass strong new animal protection legislation at all levels of government, ensure laws already on the books are vigorously enforced, and fight for animals in courtrooms across the country.

We seek an enthusiastic lawyer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about enhancing legal protections for animals, and will be responsible for assisting in the creation and implementation of Animal Justice’s legal campaigns and strategies related to all areas of animal use. The staff lawyer will be comfortable advocating for animals inside courtrooms and legislatures, as well in the court of public opinion.

Animal Justice is a small organization but is expanding quickly, and we are looking for someone who can grow with us.

Position type: Six-month full-time contract position with the possibility of becoming a full-time, permanent position

Reports to: Executive Director

Location: Toronto strongly preferred, other locations may be possible

Salary: Depends on relevant experience

Position responsibilities: 

• Liaise with other Animal Justice staff, external counsel, and experts to develop legal campaigns and strategies, including litigation and legislative campaigns
• Research and develop legal theories and strategies for litigation
• Work closely with the executive director, external counsel, and others to draft, edit, and file lawsuits and interventions in court cases on behalf of Animal Justice
• Work with the executive director and the board to develop and implement a comprehensive and integrated legislative and political strategy
• Review and analyze legislation
• Meet with legislators, government officials, and other policymakers to advance animal protection legislation and policies
• Write reports, briefing memos, and other legal analyses on animal law topics
• Research, prepare, and file law enforcement complaints with relevant authorities, including assisting members of the public in filing complaints
• Prepare, file, and oversee freedom of information requests
• Prepare and deliver presentations at law schools, conferences, community events, and Animal Justice events
• Assist with the oversight and management of Animal Justice student clubs at Canadian law schools
• Supervise volunteers, including lawyers and law students
• Consult with communication staff in the creation of written content for Animal Justice’s website, social media platforms, and email communications to supporters
• Assist other team members with special projects as required, including fundraisers, community events, and conferences
• Maintain strong relationships with Animal Justice supporters and colleagues at other organizations
• Travel as required to attend meetings, conferences, and other events
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Position requirements:

• A law degree, and called to the bar in a Canadian province or territory
• Minimum two years experience practicing law
• Thorough knowledge of animal rights issues, Animal Justice campaigns, social change strategies, and legal approaches to animal advocacy
• An understanding of Canadian politics
• Excellent written and oral advocacy and communication skills
• Strong organizational and project management skills, self-motivation, and the ability to multitask, work independently, and meet quick deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and supporters
• Ability to communicate in French is an asset
• Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Office, Google products, and Dropbox
• Personal commitment to Animal Justice’s philosophy and mission
• Ability to travel regularly

Hiring process: 

Animal Justice offers a friendly and positive work environment, and is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications should include a resume and cover letter in PDF format explaining why the position interests you and how your experience and skills make you an ideal candidate, as well as a legal writing sample. Applicants in their first five years of legal practice should include law school transcripts.

Email your application to info@animaljustice.ca by February 8, 2019 with “Job 102 – Staff Lawyer” as the subject line.

Only candidates selected for consideration will be contacted. Interviews will be conducted in Toronto during the week of February 19, 2019.

Animal Justice