Chief Legal Counsel

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Hamilton Child and Family Supports was established in 1894 as a not-for-profit charitable organization, mandated under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act of Ontario, focusing on the well‑being and protection of children. The organization is committed to the strengthening of families, while valuing diversity and promoting equity.

We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live and serve. The organization encourages applicants from all qualified individuals.

Existing Vacancy Permanent Full Time (34 hours per week) $128,689 - $156,569 Reporting to the Executive Director, the Chief Legal Counsel is responsible for the direct supervision of the organization’s lawyers and oversees the day‑to‑day activities of the Legal Department. The Chief Legal Counsel provides legal consultation and acts as Legal Counsel in CYFSA and service‑related matters as required.

• Provide input into the organization’s strategic plan, as a member of the Senior Management Team;
• Implements legal service programs aligned with the organization’s strategic plan, vision and goals;
• Ensures Legal Counsel team is seeking to understand the families’ experience and takes child’s perspective into consideration;
• Utilizes service data to support and drive outcomes related to the strategic direction of the organization;
• Instills deeper understanding of the integration of the Signs of Safety and the ADR philosophies and frameworks;
• Advises, monitors and mentors Legal Counsel in all aspects of planning, organising and delivering legal services;
• Creates interpersonal collaboration and partnering within the Legal Counsel Team and across the organization, within the Grand River Zone and at the provincial table;
• Creates opportunities for Legal Counsel team to participate in interprofessional debriefs, training and networking opportunities;
• Designs and implements case assignment models to support an integrated legal service as well as supporting equitable case assignment;
• Provides updates on relevant case law, legislative changes, recent decisions, etc. and provides summaries to the Legal and Senior Management Teams.

• Bachelor of Law Degree and membership in good standing of the Law Society of Upper Canada.
• Minimum 5 years of experience representing children, parents or a Children’s Aid Society in CYFSA or Family Law proceedings preferred, with a minimum 2 years in a similar management role.
• Advanced knowledge in case preparation, presentation and litigation techniques and alternative dispute resolution strategies.
• Advanced knowledge of legislation governing child welfare including CYFSA and related statutes and OACAS standards.
• Good knowledge of relevant CAS/industry computer applications i.e. CPIN and Caseworks.

Hamilton Child and Family Supports is committed to a culture of inclusiveness and diversity reflecting our diverse service recipients, staff, and community alike. We provide barrier‑free and accessible employment practices and, in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, provide accommodation supports during the selection and interview process if required. All employees of the organization are expected to demonstrate respect, empathy, and accountability to the children and families we serve and each other.

Interested applicants must submit a current resume to  or by Fax: , clearly indicating the Job Posting Number File 002/26 by February 9, 2026. HCFS does not utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in our recruitment or selection process.