Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA) is part of the Office of Administration of Justice (OAJ) within the United Nations. OSLA is dedicated to providing legal assistance to staff members in an independent and impartial manner. The office is headed by a Chief who is accountable to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director and is responsible for the management and proper functioning of the legal assistance program. The OSLA operates within the framework of the internal justice system of the United Nations, addressing administrative, disciplinary, and appellate proceedings before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal and the United Nations Appeals Tribunal. The organization aims to ensure that staff members receive fair treatment and access to justice within the UN system, reflecting the UN's commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of its employees.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position is crucial for providing legal assistance to staff members involved in the internal justice system of the United Nations. The role involves advising clients on appeals against administrative decisions and disciplinary matters, representing clients before the UN Dispute Tribunal and Appeals Tribunal, and preparing legal submissions that comply with procedural requirements. The Legal Officer will also identify cases suitable for informal resolution, assist in complex inquiries, conduct legal research, and provide comprehensive legal advice on various substantive and procedural questions. This position requires a strong understanding of UN rules and regulations, as well as the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. The Legal Officer will work closely with the Chief of OSLA and contribute to the overall functioning of the office, ensuring that legal assistance is provided effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing legal assistance to individuals within the scope of the administration of justice as defined by General Assembly resolution 63/25
• Advising clients on appeals against administrative decisions and disciplinary matters.
• Representing clients before the UN Dispute Tribunal and Appeals Tribunal, including preparing written and oral submissions.
• Identifying cases suitable for informal resolution and assisting clients in mediation processes.
• Responding to complex inquiries and correspondence, identifying legal issues, and advising on legal documents.
• Conducting extensive legal research and providing detailed analysis of cases and jurisprudence.
• Assisting in the preparation of reports on the office's work for the General Assembly and other bodies.
• Maintaining the office's registers and legal precedent reporting database.
• Ensuring compliance with administrative and budgetary requirements. 1
• Performing other duties as required by the Chief of OSLA.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the relevant rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of the United Nations. 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 trials on behalf of clients are essential. Candidates should also exhibit discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive legal issues, possess strong negotiating skills, and be able to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines. Knowledge of the UN system and its interrelationships is crucial, along with a commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international 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 the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in legal principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in law, including legal analysis, research, and writing, is required. Additionally, candidates must have at least two years of experience at the national or international level, specifically in appearing and leading evidence before a court or tribunal. Experience within the UN common system or similar international organizations is desirable, as it provides candidates with a better understanding of the unique legal environment in which the UN operates.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and familiarity with another official UN language is also considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and legal representation within the UN framework.

Additional Notes:
The position is temporarily available for a period of 364 days, with the possibility of extension, and is subject to the availability of funds and budgetary approval. Candidates who are current staff members of the United Nations Secretariat may be considered for this temporary assignment. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly and without discrimination.