Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Legal Counsel, Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations. The United Nations was established in 1945 and has a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. It operates in multiple countries around the world, with a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global challenges. The organization emphasizes the importance of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its operations, and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for handling a variety of issues related to public law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, which includes interpreting and applying various legal instruments that govern United Nations activities. The role involves conducting extensive legal research and analysis, preparing studies, reports, and correspondence, and reviewing legal documents to identify key issues. The Legal Officer will also prepare drafts of background papers, legal opinions, and assist in the negotiation and settlement of claims and disputes. This position requires collaboration with senior colleagues and providing guidance to junior staff, ensuring that the legal framework of the UN is upheld and that the statutory responsibilities of the Secretary-General are fulfilled.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer's duties include handling issues related to public international law, conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and providing legal opinions on various matters. The officer will review legal documents for important issues and inconsistencies, prepare drafts of reports and legislative texts, and assist in the negotiation of agreements with governments and international organizations. Additionally, the Legal Officer will service diplomatic conferences and committees, prepare background materials, and provide guidance to junior staff. The role may also involve performing other duties as assigned by senior officials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of public international law, including the UN Charter and the law of privileges and immunities. They should have analytical skills for conducting legal research and drafting legal documents under pressure. Good legal judgment, negotiation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team are essential. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

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

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in law, including legal analysis, research, and writing, is required. At least two years of experience as a lawyer in a legal office of an intergovernmental organization or government ministry is necessary. Experience in international law related to privileges and immunities, as well as in preparing and negotiating international agreements, is desirable. Familiarity with the International Court of Justice is also beneficial, along with experience working with the UN or a related organization.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is desirable, and proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process emphasizes the importance of geographic diversity and the highest standards of efficiency and integrity. Candidates will be subject to reference checks, and the UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. The position may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations as per the organization's mobility policy.