Legal Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Legal Officer
Location: The Hague
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 09/12/2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) was established in 2002 under the Rome Statute to prosecute individuals for international crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The ICC operates with a mission to ensure accountability for the gravest crimes and to promote justice and peace globally. The organization employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, focusing on law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and human rights. The ICC is committed to geographical representation and gender equality within its staff, encouraging applications from under-represented states and women for senior positions.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position within the Prosecution Pillar of the ICC involves providing legal support and advice under the supervision of the Senior Appeals Counsel. The role is crucial for analyzing court decisions, conducting legal research, and drafting legal documents related to appeals. The incumbent will be expected to engage in complex legal issues pertaining to international criminal law and contribute to the strategic direction of the prosecution's legal efforts. This position requires a proactive approach to legal challenges and the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team, ensuring that the ICC's mission of justice is upheld.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of tasks including: analyzing court decisions and filings to advise on the prospects for appeals; conducting comprehensive legal research on international criminal law and related procedures; drafting legal motions, submissions, and briefs for the Prosecution; providing legal advice to Trial Teams; assisting in the preparation and presentation of arguments during hearings; reviewing and selecting evidence for appellate proceedings; updating legal digests; and developing internal procedures for the Appeals Section. The role demands a high level of legal acumen and the ability to work under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in international criminal law, demonstrated through an advanced university degree in Law. Essential qualifications include excellent drafting and analytical skills, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to work effectively in a multicultural environment. The ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively is crucial, as is a commitment to the ICC's mission and values.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Law is required, with a preference for candidates who have studied international criminal law and/or human rights law. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of relevant experience is acceptable. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to perform effectively in the role.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant working experience in litigation, criminal law, and procedure is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least four years of experience. This experience should demonstrate a solid understanding of legal processes and the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in either English or French, the working languages of the ICC, is essential. Candidates who can work in both languages will be highly regarded. Knowledge of additional official languages of the Court, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Short-Term Appointment, with a contract duration to be determined, and it does not carry any expectation of renewal. The maximum duration for such appointments, including extensions, is 12 months. The ICC reserves the right to appoint at a lower grade or modify the job description as necessary. The selected candidate will undergo a Personnel security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Clearance process, which includes verification of personal history and a criminal record check. Applications are encouraged from nationals of non-represented and under-represented states, as well as women for senior positions. The ICC emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion in its recruitment processes.