Legal Officer (Temporary Job Opening)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the General Legal Division of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) of the United Nations. The OLA is responsible for providing legal advice and services to the United Nations and its various bodies, ensuring that the organization operates within the framework of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The United Nations was established in 1945 and has grown to include 193 member states, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. The OLA employs a diverse team of legal professionals who work on a wide range of issues, including international law, human rights, and humanitarian law, and operates in various countries around the world.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer will play a crucial role in handling a variety of legal issues related to international commercial law, constitutional law, and administrative law, among others. The position requires the officer to conduct extensive legal research and analysis, prepare legal documents, and provide legal opinions on matters concerning the United Nations. The officer will work closely with senior legal officers and will be expected to advise on investigations related to the use of UN resources, prepare drafts of legal texts, and assist in negotiations and settlements of claims. The role also involves representing the organization in legal proceedings and providing guidance to junior staff, making it essential for the officer to possess strong legal judgment and drafting skills. The Legal Officer will be expected to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and integrity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: handling issues related to international commercial law, constitutional law, and administrative law; conducting legal research and preparing studies, briefs, and reports; reviewing legal documents and identifying key issues; advising on internal and external investigations; preparing drafts of legal opinions and agreements; assisting in the negotiation and settlement of claims; servicing diplomatic conferences and committees; representing the organization in legal proceedings; providing legal advice on human resources matters; and guiding junior staff. The officer will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned by senior colleagues, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in public international law. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in law combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted. Admittance to the bar of a Member State of the Organization or qualification to practice law is required. Candidates should have a strong understanding of legal principles and procedures, as well as the ability to apply them effectively in various contexts. Proficiency in legal drafting and the ability to conduct thorough legal research are essential. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their work.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in public international law. A first-level university degree in law may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying work experience. Candidates must also be admitted to the bar of a Member State of the Organization or otherwise qualified to practice law, ensuring that they have the necessary legal credentials to perform the duties of the position effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the practice of law is required. This experience must include providing comprehensive legal services as a legal officer in an international intergovernmental organization or government legal office, or as an attorney in a law firm. Candidates should have experience dealing with issues related to white-collar crimes, such as fraud and corruption, and advising on the status, privileges, and immunities of international organizations. Experience in a United Nations legal office or similar international organization is desirable, particularly in handling allegations of fraud or corruption involving personnel.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. Fluency in French is desirable, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is also considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 202

• If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and eligibility may be restricted to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination or selection process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates are urged to provide complete and accurate information in their applications. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of gender, nationality, or background.