Litigation Lawyer (Solicitor I - III)

About Us

The Nova Scotia Securities Commission protects investors from activities that tend to undermine investor confidence in the fairness and efficiency of the capital markets and, to the extent not inconsistent with an adequate level of investor protection, to foster the process of capital formation.

About Our Opportunity

This is an ideal opportunity to broaden your legal expertise by gaining administrative law experience in-house with the securities regulator. During the term of employment, you will be a key member of the Enforcement Branch of the Nova Scotia Securities Commission (the Commission), reporting to the Director of Enforcement (the Director). 

Primary Accountabilities

The Litigation Lawyer is responsible for providing effective and efficient legal counsel to the Commission, the Director, investigators and other staff of the Enforcement Branch, both as advisor and advocate, through leading and conducting administrative prosecutions of violations of Nova Scotia securities laws or conduct that is contrary to the public interest. 

You will assist and advise on the planning and conduct of investigations; provide advice and make recommendations regarding the appropriate conduct of proceedings; review evidence in preparation for disclosure and presentation; prepare and advise on legal documents and opinions, rules of practice and procedures, witnesses, evidence, disclosure, media responses; and advocate on behalf of the Director during enforcement proceedings.  

You will apply extensive and specialized legal knowledge and skills to analyze and resolve complex, sensitive and multidimensional problems autonomously or as part of a team.   You may also represent the Commission on various national committees of the Canadian Securities Administrators.

Qualifications and Experience

You have a law degree and have been admitted to the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society or are eligible for admission, with a minimum of 3 years’ experience practicing litigation or administrative law. Knowledge of securities law and/or experience with securities law is an asset.  An equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered.

The position requires an aptitude to deal with complex issues, strong analytical skills, tact and diplomacy, capacity for decisive action, and the ability to influence. 

You possess exceptional communication (written and oral) and relationship building skills, with an ability to build a long-term ongoing network of relationships.

You must comply with the NSSC’s Conflict of Interest Rules.   

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with anticipated end date of September 30, 2026.  

What We Offer

• Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department specific flexible working schedules