UN Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Administrative Law Division (ALD) of the United Nations is responsible for implementing the UN standards of conduct for all personnel across the UN Secretariat. The ALD provides strategic and legal advice on internal justice matters and represents the Secretary-General before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal. The division handles disciplinary matters related to Secretariat staff, oversees efforts to prevent and respond to unsatisfactory conduct, and supports UN Secretariat managers in addressing conduct and discipline issues. The ALD operates within the Office of Human Resources (OHR) under the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC).

Job Overview:
The UN Legal Officer position is critical within the Administrative Law Division, specifically in the Critical Incident Response Section (CIRS) of the Disciplinary Accountability Service (DAS). The role involves serving as lead officers in handling critical incidents, enforcing the Organization's standards of conduct, and managing cases related to sexual exploitation and abuse. Legal Officers are expected to independently manage a wide range of complex legal matters that encompass international, public, national, and administrative law. This includes providing legal advice on substantive and procedural questions, performing extensive legal research, preparing legal documents, and representing the organization in various legal proceedings. The position requires a proactive approach to legal challenges and the ability to mentor junior officers while contributing to the development of new legal instruments and policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a variety of duties, including but not limited to: serving as lead officers for critical incidents and cases of sexual exploitation and abuse; providing legal advice on complex legal issues; conducting legal research and preparing legal opinions and documents; representing the organization in tribunal proceedings; advising on negotiations and settlements; reviewing and drafting legal documents; coordinating teams of legal officers; and contributing to the design of new legal policies and instruments. The role also involves mentoring junior officers and participating in various committees and working groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international legal procedures and instruments, particularly in criminal law. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in legal writing, and the ability to conduct comprehensive legal research are essential. Candidates must also exhibit discretion, sound judgment, and strong negotiating skills, along with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in administrative or employment law is required. Candidates should have at least two years of litigation experience at the national or international level, including experience in leading evidence before a court or tribunal. Experience in handling disciplinary matters within national or international entities is desirable, as is familiarity with the policies and procedures of the United Nations or similar organizations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, also requiring a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded for an initial period of one year and is subject to budgetary approval and the availability of funds. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Applicants who have reached the mandatory age of separation are not eligible. The UN Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process will adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.