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 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 organization aims to ensure that staff members have access to legal support and that their rights are protected within the internal justice system of the UN.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position is crucial for providing legal assistance to staff members involved in the administration of justice within 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 responding to inquiries, conduct legal research, and provide comprehensive legal advice on various substantive and procedural questions. The 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 office's overall mission of ensuring fair and equitable treatment of staff members in legal matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: providing legal assistance to staff members; advising clients on appeals and disciplinary matters; representing clients in legal proceedings; preparing written and oral submissions; identifying cases for informal resolution; conducting legal research; drafting legal documents; maintaining office 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. The role demands strong analytical skills, legal writing proficiency, and the ability to manage multiple cases effectively while adhering to tight deadlines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong legal background, with knowledge of UN rules and regulations, and the ability to analyze complex legal issues. The position requires excellent legal writing skills, the ability to conduct trials, and strong negotiating skills. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, discretion, sound judgment, and the ability to work under pressure. The role also requires a commitment to gender equality and the ability to incorporate gender perspectives into legal work.

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 ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in legal principles and practices relevant to the UN's operations.

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, with first-hand experience 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 an 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 multiple languages enhances communication and collaboration within the diverse UN environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is temporarily available for a period of 364 days, with the possibility of extension. Candidates should note that the appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and budgetary approval. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates or those who have been recruited through a competitive examination. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of integrity and efficiency in its recruitment process, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly and equitably.