Position Title: Supervising Lawyer
Employer: Lakehead University
Department: Newcomer Legal Clinic – Lakehead University, Bora Laskin Faculty of Law
Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario
Job Type: Full-time, contract, July 21, 2025, to March 31, 2026, to cover leave of current supervising lawyer (possible extension to August 31, 2026 if continuing funding secured); 3-month probationary period
Reports To: Newcomer Legal Clinic Director

Position Summary:

The Newcomer Legal Clinic is a community-based teaching clinic located at the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law at Lakehead University. The Clinic operates as a partnership between the Faculty of Law and the Thunder Bay Multicultural Association. The clinic’s goals are to address an access-to-justice gap in immigration and refugee law services throughout Northern Ontario, to build local knowledge and capacity in legal issues affecting migrants and refugees, and to train future lawyers who will work with diverse communities in the North.

The supervising lawyer’s position is funded by The Law Foundation of Ontario under its Responsive Grant program. This position is currently funded until March 31, 2026; we have applied for new funding, but we cannot guarantee that funding will be secured for employment beyond that date. If funding is secured, this position could be extended to August 31, 2026.

The supervising lawyer at the Newcomer Legal Clinic is responsible for managing the Clinic’s day-to-day legal work. The position entails providing legal services to clients in immigration, refugee, and related matters, including employment, human rights, and other areas of law.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide legal advice and representation to clients in matters related to immigration, refugee claims, and humanitarian applications.

• Handle a caseload that includes refugee protection claims, appeals, judicial reviews, and family sponsorships.

• Represent clients before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), Federal Court, and other relevant tribunals or legal bodies.

• Conduct legal research, draft documents, and prepare cases for submission and hearing.

• Collaborate with community organizations, advocacy groups, and social service providers to support clients’ needs.

• Educate clients on their rights, obligations, and legal options under Canadian immigration and refugee laws.

• Stay current with changes in immigration law, policies, and regulations, and adapt strategies accordingly.

• Participate in outreach initiatives and community workshops to provide legal education and awareness on immigration and refugee issues.

• Participate in research and advocate for policy changes and reforms to improve the legal and social standing of immigrants and refugees.

• Assist in supervising law students engaged in clinical exercises, placements, or classes through the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

• At least one year of experience working as a lawyer at a legal clinic or other law office is required.

• Strong knowledge of immigration and refugee law issues that are commonly faced by low-income individuals in Northern Ontario is an asset.

• Experience working with individuals and groups who face intersecting barriers to accessing services and benefits.

• Work experience or lived experience as a member of diverse communities.

• Excellent research, writing, and advocacy skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a team and to supervise learners.

• Commitment to social justice, human rights, and equity for immigrants and refugees.

Other Requirements:

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, depending on client needs.

• Ability to travel to attend hearings or client meetings, as required.

Salary and Benefits:

– Band 9 of the Lakehead University Schedule II Salary Grid (Step 1 starts at approximately $92,000):

– Participation in Lakehead University’s pension and benefit plan may be available.