Solicitor
Department of Justice and Public Safety
Civil Division
Location: St. John’s, NL
Employment Type: Contractual
Salary: Within the Solicitor’s Pay Plan (commensurate with experience)
Closing Date: July 10, 2026

Context

The Civil Division of the Department of Justice and Public Safety is the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s law firm. Civil Division provides legal services to Ministers, departments, and agencies of government, including legal opinions, drafting contracts and commercial documents, and representing the Provincial Government and its agencies in negotiations and civil proceedings before administrative tribunals and all levels of court.

The Litigation Unit represents the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, its departments, and many Crown corporations in civil proceedings before all levels of court within the province. The Litigation Unit provides litigation services in a broad range of matters, including constitutional, administrative, commercial, tort, employment, and public law disputes. The Unit also consults with client departments on litigation strategy and risk management in matters where litigation is anticipated.

Duties

• Represent the Province in civil proceedings before trial and appellate courts, boards, and tribunals.
• Conduct all aspects of litigation, including legal research, drafting pleadings and submissions, examinations for discovery, hearings, trials, and appeals.
• Provide litigation advice and strategic guidance to government departments, agencies, and Crown corporations.
• Negotiate settlements and participate in alternative dispute resolution processes.
• Manage files and maintain confidentiality using proper information management practices.
• Interpret legislation, regulations, policies, and case law.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Merit Criteria

Screening Criteria:

1. Membership in the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, or eligibility for immediate admission.
2. Demonstrated litigation experience.
3. Experience appearing before courts, boards, or tribunals would be considered an asset.

Assessment Criteria:

1. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
2. Demonstrated litigation ability and sound judgment.
3. Strong advocacy, drafting, and communication skills.
4. Ability to manage multiple priorities and work in a team environment.
5. Relationship-building skills.

Conditions of Employment

1. Travel throughout the province may be required.
2. Recent and satisfactory enhanced security clearance.

Applicant Information

For more information about this opportunity, please contact:

Justin Caines
Assistant Deputy Minister, Legal Services
Phone: 709-729-4865
Email: justincaines@gov.nl.ca

To apply: Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, by email to justincaines@gov.nl.ca on or before the closing date.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador values diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Disability-related accommodations and alternate formats are available upon request. Preference will be given to applicants legally entitled to work in Canada. Applications must clearly demonstrate the required merit criteria and be received on or before the closing date.

Posted: June 30, 2026