Assistant Attorney-General (JLG LO 4) - Litigation and State Proceedings Division

Job Purpose

Under the general direction and leadership of the Deputy Solicitor-General, Litigation and State Proceedings, the Assistant Attorney-General prepares for and conducts trials and advises on pleadings and other court filings for a range of complex legal claims brought by or against the GOJ.

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative:

• Advocates in the Courts of Jamaica on behalf of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of Government;
• Initiating legal proceedings in the Supreme Court on behalf of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government who seek the representation of the Attorney-General’s Chambers;
• Reviews incoming cases to assess the type of case, identify legal issues, and determine pending deadlines and initial Court appearances;
• Formulates strategy for a range of cases;
• Writes for instructions and follows-up on matters relating to claims;
• Interviews witnesses and meets with clients;
• Conducts a range of complex legal research;
• Drafts Pleadings and other Court documents;
• Appears as Counsel at the Industrial Disputes Tribunal; the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal;
• Engages in Court mandated mediations;
• Negotiates settlements and settles claims;
• Writes opinions for various Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government in litigious matters;
• Advises, consults with, and briefs the Senior Assistant Attorney General, on the status of all assigned cases.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

Core

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong client relations skills
• Excellent planning and organizing skills
• Excellent judgment and decision-making skills
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications

Technical

• Excellent presentation and advocacy skills;
• Excellent legal research and analytical skills;
• In-depth and extensive knowledge of the Laws of Jamaica and the broad field of law or practice relating to advocacy and litigation;
• Excellent written and verbal communication including the ability to communicate legal information in a manner which can be understood by decision makers and users;
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and convictions of purpose in unfavourable or unpopular situations;
• Problem solving and negotiation/facilitation skills and experience;
• Good strategic and analytical skills to enable them to advise on complex issues;
• IT skills in relation to Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and MS Project and associated legal software.

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree
• Legal Education Certificate
• At least five (5) years post qualification experience as a trial lawyer

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.