Legal Officer

Organizational Context

The Legal Officer position is within the Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA) of the Office of Administration of Justice (OAJ). OSLA provides legal assistance to staff members involved in the internal justice system, handling administrative, disciplinary, and appellate proceedings before UN tribunals. The Legal Officer reports to the Chief of OSLA.

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer's primary purpose is to provide comprehensive legal assistance and representation to staff members within the UN's internal justice system. This involves advising clients on administrative decisions, disciplinary matters, and appeals before the UN Dispute Tribunal and UN Appeals Tribunal. The role requires conducting extensive legal research, analyzing cases and jurisprudence, drafting submissions, and identifying opportunities for informal resolution. The Legal Officer contributes to the effective functioning of OSLA by ensuring accurate and timely legal support, maintaining case records, and assisting in reporting on the office's work, ultimately upholding the rights and responsibilities of UN staff.

Responsibilities

Provide legal assistance and advice to staff members on administrative decisions, disciplinary matters, and appeals before the UN Dispute Tribunal and UN Appeals Tribunal. Represent and litigate on behalf of clients, preparing and presenting written and oral submissions. Conduct thorough legal research and analysis of cases and jurisprudence. Identify and facilitate informal dispute resolution, such as settlement or mediation. Respond to complex inquiries and review legal documents and correspondence. Assist in maintaining office registers and a legal precedent database. Contribute to the preparation of reports to the General Assembly and other bodies. Support administrative and budgetary requirements of the office. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive legal experience, including legal analysis, research, and writing, is required. Two years of litigation experience at the national or international level, including court/tribunal appearances and witness examination, is also mandatory. Experience within the UN common system or similar international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, strong analytical and legal research skills, proficiency in legal writing, litigation experience, negotiation skills, ability to work under pressure, client orientation, planning and organizing skills, knowledge of the UN system and its jurisprudence.

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