Summary

Under the direction of the supervisor, the Legal Advocate provides individualized support, information and guidance to people with limited incomes that need assistance with poverty law issues

Start Date: Immediately

Location: Coquitlam and Port Moody

Hours of work: 35 hours per week (some evenings and weekend may be required)

Posting Closing Date: June 4, 2024

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Meet with potential clients in person or over the phone to gather information about their concern, assess their resources/options and the merits of their case, screen for legal issues such as access to government financial income resources such as Income Assistance, PWD, CPP; conflict/issues with landlords.
• Provide potential clients with appropriate legal information and referrals as needed, outline options for resolution, facilitate the development of client action plans.
• Assist clients with legal procedures, including completion of legal forms, providing and interpreting self-help materials and writing letters and submissions. Consult with supervising lawyer as needed.
• Advocate on behalf of clients with decision makers involved in the client's issues. Accompany clients at tribunals, courts, police, lawyer offices, legal aid, financial aid workers, landlords and other situations as needed.
• Follow-up with other services/clients re progress and outcome of situation.
• Document intake, concerns, recommendations, planning and follow up with plans for each client.
• Act as a resource to other staff, volunteers, support groups on an as needed basis.
• Compile and report service statistics as well as trends and issues related to the service.
• Develop and maintain working relationships with relevant government staff (Ministry for Social Development, Housing, Mental Health, MLA offices, etc.).

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in social sciences, counseling, law, social work or other relevant subject areas. Training in conflict resolution, mediation an asset.
• 2 years recent related experience. Knowledge of community and regional resources. Understanding of Family, Poverty and Immigration Law. Knowledge of community resources.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills. Strong organizational, oral and written communication skills.
• Extensive problem-solving skills working from a client centered, strength-based perspective.

• Valid BC Driver's License and access to a vehicle. Able to work independently.

SHARE recognizes the systemic discrimination that Black, Indigenous, Persons of Colour and many other groups have historically experienced, and continue to face in our society, and in our community. SHARE is committed to being an inclusive, welcoming and unbiased employer and service provider. Further, we are encouraging members of these communities to apply for this position. Please feel free to let us know if you carry any of these identities.

Our Organization

SHARE is an accredited non-profit, independent, community-based organization providing leadership and programs in response to the social needs of the residents of the Tri-Cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra), New Westminster and adjacent communities. SHARE Family & Community Services exists to Connect, Engage, and Strengthen Individuals and Families.

To learn more about SHARE Family & Community Services:

• • watch this video https://vimeo.com/316966573
  • Visit our website at https://sharesociety.ca/