011 - Métis Court Worker

About the Role: 

The Métis Criminal Court Worker is responsible for providing in court and out of court services to community members in MNO’s Region 8. They assist clients in navigating the legal system, understanding court processes, and accessing necessary resources, including counselling and community programs. The role involves liaising with legal professionals, offering culturally relevant services, and promoting equitable outcomes. The worker helps clients prepare for court appearances, and facilitates communication with justice stakeholders. The Métis Criminal Court Worker will report to the Supervisor of Advocacy.

What you will be doing: 

• Ensure that the Métis Criminal Court Worker Program is delivered in the spirit and philosophy of the Métis Nation of Ontario’s Statement of Prime Purpose
• Facilitate access to justice for Indigenous clients by way of advocacy, service delivery and referrals
• Provide client services using case management techniques such as relationship building, intake assessments, case noting, advocacy, individualized support plans, and referrals
• Provide legal information and legal resources to clients, including assistance with Legal Aid Ontario applications
• Advocate for clients’ needs and ensure their voices are heard in court proceedings;
• Assist self-represented individuals with obtaining correct court documents
• Provide ongoing support to community members involved in the criminal court system in MNO’s Region 2 including attending court to provide emotional support and advocacy, facilitate communication between clients and legal professionals, such as lawyers or mediators;
• Ensure clients understand the nature of their charges, the procedures in criminal court, and court directions specific to the client;
• Connect clients with community resources, such as counseling services, housing support, or parenting programs;
• Provide referrals to culturally specific services to meet the diverse needs of clients;
• Develop and maintain relationships with external organizations and service providers;
• Participate in inter-agency meetings and case conferences to coordinate service delivery;
• Prepare reports and statistical data for funding or evaluation purposes;
• Maintain accurate records and reports for each client’s court case, ensuring all documentation is complete, up-to-date, and compliant with organizational standards;
• Keep apprised of relevant legislation or policy changes in relation to the judicial and social services fields;
• Promote the values of the Métis Nation of Ontario within the workplace and in the community by demonstrating positive and professional relationships with others (employees, citizens, council, volunteers, advocates, etc.);
• Report all unsafe conditions, hazards or practices, accidents and incidents in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and adhere to all Health and Safety requirements within provincial legislation and the MNO’s policies and procedures;
• Perform other job/branch-related duties as required.

Qualifications: 

• 1 to 3 years of experience in Indigenous client justice services, social work and/or case management
• College Diploma (1 or 2 year) in justice, social work, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience to writing high quality evidence and data-based reports and professional presentations
• Demonstrated experience to quickly acquire and expand knowledge and to be flexible in a demanding and dynamic environment
• Demonstrated experience dealing with personal and confidential information and issues in a professional, tactful and diplomatic manner
• Strong desire to act in the service of Métis citizens, to advance and uphold rights and culture,
• Knowledge of Métis-specific and broader Indigenous justice challenges
• Knowledge of Métis-specific programs and services available to support clients with other presenting needs such as employment help, housing, mental health support, etc.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed approaches
• Knowledge of Ontario criminal court procedures
• A high degree of technology literacy and proficiency in standard office equipment
• Advanced communications skills, both written and verbal
• Superior organization skills
• Highly detail-oriented
• Demonstrated ability to manage competing demands and assess changing priorities
• Demonstrated ability to assess situations and problem-solve independently
• Demonstrated ability to work alone/independently with minimal supervision
• Demonstrated case management experience and ability to manage a case load that is high at times
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with justice system officials, stakeholders and community members
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation including Criminal Code of Canada and Youth Criminal Justice Act
• Firm understanding of the Gladue principle, how it applies to Métis people, and the role of introducing Gladue factors in a legal proceeding as well as an understanding of the function of Gladue reports and Gladue letters
• Must possess a valid G-class driver’s license and reliable vehicle
• Willing and able to travel throughout Ontario, and occasionally throughout Canada for the purpose of meeting Advocacy Program objectives as well as Advocacy Program and Community Wellbeing training.
• Willing and able to occasionally work hours outside of the regular Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm schedule.Knowledge of FIPPA and PIPEDA legislation