As a General Counsel in Litigation Services with the Department of National Defence, you will provide specialized legal advice and representation on complex litigation matters affecting the department. You will manage litigation files from initial assessment through resolution, preparing legal arguments, coordinating with external counsel, and representing DND interests in court proceedings and dispute resolution processes. Your work directly supports military operations, defence policies, and organizational decisions by ensuring legal compliance and protecting the Crown's interests.
Your responsibilities include analyzing legal issues, drafting pleadings and legal documents, conducting legal research, negotiating settlements, and appearing before courts and tribunals. You will work with senior leadership, operational commanders, and other government departments to resolve disputes involving contract claims, administrative law matters, employment issues, and other litigation affecting defence interests. You may also provide training and guidance to junior legal staff and contribute to the development of litigation strategies and legal policies.
You will work in a dynamic, deadline-driven environment where your legal expertise directly impacts organizational outcomes. The role requires strong written and verbal communication skills, sound judgment under pressure, and the ability to manage multiple complex files simultaneously. You will collaborate with military personnel, civilian staff, and external stakeholders across Canada and internationally.
Key Responsibilities
Provide litigation services support to departmental clients, Research and analyze legal issues and precedents, Draft legal opinions, contracts, and regulatory instruments, Advise on legal risks and compliance requirements
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
You must be a member in good standing of the Law Society of your province or Quebec's Barreau du Québec. A Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) or Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a Canadian law school is required, along with completion of bar admission requirements for your jurisdiction. Previous experience in litigation, whether in private practice, government, or other sectors, is highly valued.
Professional development opportunities include specialized training in military law, administrative law, and Crown litigation procedures specific to federal practice. Many lawyers pursue additional certifications in alternative dispute resolution, advanced trial advocacy, or specialized practice areas. The department supports continuous learning through professional development funds, access to legal research databases, and participation in professional law associations and seminars. Mentorship from experienced counsel and exposure to increasingly complex files support your growth toward senior legal positions.
Entry Plans
Most positions are filled through Public Service Commission competitions open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You may enter through several pathways: open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca), where applications are evaluated on legal credentials and relevant experience; internal competitions reserved for current federal public service employees seeking lateral moves; or deployment from other departments. Some specialized recruitment may target lawyers with specific litigation experience or security clearances.
If you are a recent law school graduate, you may be considered for indeterminate or term positions depending on experience and competition results. The department occasionally participates in student recruitment programs and co-op placements to build relationships with emerging legal talent. Lateral moves from other government departments with legal services are common, as is movement from provincial or private practice. Competition requirements typically specify years of post-call experience needed for different salary levels within the Legal Services job classification.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and job-sharing arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and management approval, though full-time is the standard for this litigation role. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service; many legal research, writing, and file management activities can be performed from home. However, courtroom appearances, client consultations, and collaborative work with military personnel may require in-person presence at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa or regional defence headquarters.
Flexible work arrangements are negotiated on a case-by-case basis and depend on your specific litigation portfolio and court schedules. The department recognizes the demanding nature of litigation work and supports work-life balance initiatives where operationally feasible. Employees should discuss flexibility options with their manager and union representative, as eligibility and accommodations vary by position and business needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
