‹ Leadership Opportunities

Legal Counsel

Status: Completed

Our Client

The Real Estate Council of British Columbia (Council) is a professional regulatory agency established by the provincial government in 1958 for the self-governance of the real estate industry. Its mandate is to protect the public interest by enforcing the licensing and licensee conduct requirements of the Real Estate Services Act (RESA). The Council is responsible for licensing individuals and brokerages engaged in real estate sales, rental and strata property management. The Council also enforces entry qualifications, investigates complaints against licensees and imposes disciplinary sanctions under the Act and administers a compensation scheme for claims of wrongful taking by licensees.

The Role

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding legal career where you can make a difference and still have time for life outside the office, this position may be exactly what you are seeking.  Reporting to the Director of Legal Services, Legal Counsel will work with internal staff in the investigation of complaints made to the Council and be responsible for handling files through the hearing and appeal processes under RESA.  Legal Counsel will also appear on behalf of the Council in hearings regarding the suitability of applicants for licensure and claims of wrongful taking by licensees. In addition, Legal Counsel participate in and provide guidance and advice to various committees, and liaise with and instruct external legal counsel on various matters as required.

Duties

  • Prepares for and conducts disciplinary, qualification and compensation hearings, including, as required, review of files recommended for hearing, preparation of formal charges in Notices of Hearing,  creation of document books and agreed statements of fact, review of professional conduct history, interview of witnesses and research of precedents.
  • Negotiates proposals for consent resolution of disciplinary matters and presents proposals to the relevant Council Committee.
  • Instructs external counsel in legal proceedings, including: disciplinary, qualification and compensation proceedings under RESA; appeals, judicial reviews, and any civil proceedings before the courts, as required.
  • Participates in and provides guidance to various Council Committees and Advisory Groups.
  • Contributes to the drafting of various documents, communications and articles.
  • Provides guidance and advice to the Compliance and Audit Departments with respect to investigations and various other issues.

 

Skills and Qualifications

  • Membership or eligibility for membership in the Law Society of BC.
  • 5+ years of litigation experience.
  • Prior experience in regulatory or administrative law.
  • Experience drafting pleadings and affidavits and negotiating settlements.
  • Commitment to providing quality service.
  • Effective organizational abilities in personal work routines and an ability to handle diverse situations as they arise.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
  • Computer literacy with Microsoft Office Suite (experience with databases would also be an asset).
  • Effective file management.
  • Excellent legal research and problem solving skills.
  • Experience with volunteer/elected boards would be an asset.
  • Knowledge of and experience with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act or similar legislation would be an asset.

 

People First Solutions is one of Vancouver’s leading Executive Recruitment firms, dedicated to recruiting top talent.

If you possess the fundamental skills, experience and education required to be successful in this role we invite you to provide a cover letter and résumé in confidence to Michael O’Brien.

Michael O’Brien – michael@peoplefirstsolutions.com – 604.760.7649