Looking for a change of pace and a new challenge? Come join us at the Yukon Legal Services Society (YLSS), where your criminal defence skills can make a meaningful difference. YLSS is the Yukon’s legal aid service provider. We’re a non-profit organization with a dedicated, collaborative team of lawyers who appreciate flexibility and support. We’re currently seeking an experienced criminal defence lawyer to represent vulnerable and marginalized Yukoners facing significant barriers to accessing justice.
If you're already rooted in the North and considering a professional move, this is your opportunity to do so. For those living elsewhere across Canada, this is your chance to engage in meaningful work within a welcoming community where your weekends can take you from the courtroom to the mountains. If you're ready to trade traffic for trails and burnout for balance, we’d love to hear from you.
What we are looking for in you:
- Experience defending clients with serious Criminal Code and CDSA charges.
- Willingness to engage in mentorship and collaborate with other lawyers as part of a team.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and experience supporting clients with complex needs.
- Proven ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.
- Strong organizational skills to effectively manage a heavy caseload.
- Reliable, resourceful, adaptable, and a proactive problem solver.
- Excellent time management and communication skills.
- Proficiency in legal research and drafting high-quality legal documents.
- Commitment to a trauma-informed approach to client service.
What we offer:
- An inclusive, welcoming, and supportive work environment.
- Competitive salary.
- Generous paid vacation leave.
- Comprehensive extended health care and dental coverage.
- RRSP matching program.
- Sick leave and family care leave.
- Long-term disability coverage.
- Maternity/parental leave with top-up pay.
- Annual professional development allowance.
- Wellness spending account.
- Opportunity to explore and develop skills in other areas of law.
Prior experience with Legal Aid is considered an asset.
A valid Class 5 driver’s license is required.
We understand considering a career change can be a big decision. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the role, workplace culture, or benefits, feel free to contact Shannon Hendrickson. All conversations will be kept confidential.
Applicants must be members in good standing of a Canadian Bar and eligible for admission to the Yukon Bar. Starting compensation will be determined based on relevant experience. Temporary or short-term contracts may be considered.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage applications from Indigenous and racially visible persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and/or gender identities.
Application instructions:
Please submit your resume along with a cover letter. Your cover letter is an opportunity to tell us more about yourself, share your passions, highlight key experiences, and explain how your skills align with what we're looking for. It's also a chance to let your personality shine and demonstrate why you're a good fit for our team.
Submit your resume and cover letter by email to:
Yukon Legal Services Society
Attention: Shannon Hendrickson
Email: [email protected]
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.