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 organization is accountable to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director and is responsible for managing the legal assistance program, which includes administrative, disciplinary, and appellate proceedings before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal and the United Nations Appeals Tribunal. The OSLA aims to ensure that staff members have access to justice and fair treatment within the UN system.

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 requires the Legal Officer to advise clients on appeals against administrative decisions and disciplinary matters, represent clients in legal proceedings, and prepare necessary legal documents. The Legal Officer will also conduct legal research, analyze cases, and assist in informal resolutions such as mediation. This position demands a high level of professionalism, legal expertise, and the ability to handle complex legal issues while maintaining the integrity of the UN's legal framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a variety of duties including: providing legal assistance to clients as defined by the UN's administration of justice; advising on appeals against administrative decisions; representing clients before the UN Dispute Tribunal and Appeals Tribunal; preparing written and oral submissions; identifying cases suitable for informal resolution; conducting legal research; drafting and reviewing legal documents; maintaining legal registers and databases; assisting in the preparation of reports for the General Assembly; ensuring compliance with administrative and budgetary requirements; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the UN's rules, regulations, and policies. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze complex legal issues, conduct comprehensive legal research, and prepare legal documents. Strong negotiation skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines are essential. The candidate should also exhibit discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive legal matters, as well as a commitment to gender equality and diversity in the workplace.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law is required. 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 is essential for understanding the complexities of international law and the UN's legal framework.

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 considered desirable, as it provides familiarity with the UN's operational context and legal procedures.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and proficiency in another official UN language is also considered an asset. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication and collaboration within the UN's diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is temporarily available for a period of 364 days, with the possibility of extension. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and candidates recruited through the young professional program who have not served for a minimum of two years in their initial assignment are not eligible to apply. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and does not tolerate violations of human rights or other misconduct. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process.