As a Legal Assistant in Legal Advisory Services, you provide essential administrative and operational support to legal professionals within the Department of National Defence. You manage legal documentation, prepare correspondence, schedule appointments, and ensure the smooth operation of legal offices. Your work directly supports lawyers and legal advisors who provide counsel on complex defence and security matters.
Your responsibilities include organizing legal files, drafting routine legal documents, coordinating meetings and consultations, and maintaining confidential records in compliance with federal regulations. You may also assist with legal research, prepare submissions for review, schedule court appearances, and manage the administrative aspects of legal cases. You work with sensitive information and must maintain strict confidentiality and professional discretion at all times.
You'll work in a professional legal environment within DND, collaborating with lawyers, other administrative staff, and external legal representatives. Your role requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a structured office setting.
Key Responsibilities
Provide legal advisory 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 typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful candidates have completed a legal administrative or law clerk certificate or diploma from a recognized post-secondary institution, which is highly valued. Relevant coursework includes legal terminology, legal procedures, document management, and office administration.
Professional certifications such as the Law Clerk and Legal Administrative Assistant designation through professional associations can enhance your career prospects. The Government of Canada provides on-the-job training and professional development opportunities, including courses in legal procedures, federal government operations, security protocols, and specialized DND legal processes. You'll also receive training on government information management systems, classification of documents, and access to information procedures.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. The primary method is competing in a public Service staffing process (competition) for a Legal Assistant position advertised by DND. These competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or current public servants depending on the specific posting.
If you're currently working in the public service, you may transfer laterally into this role through interdepartmental competitions. Some positions may be filled through closed competitions restricted to current DND employees. Student and recent graduate programs, such as the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign, may also offer entry opportunities. Additionally, you can join the Public Service as a casual or term employee first, which may lead to permanent opportunities.
To apply, you'll need to meet the education requirements and demonstrate relevant experience. Experience in legal settings, administrative roles, or similar professional office environments is an asset. Bilingualism (English and French) is often an asset and may be required for certain positions.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Legal Assistant positions within DND, though availability depends on operational requirements and specific office needs. Many legal offices accommodate flexible scheduling, including compressed work weeks or modified daily hours. Remote work options have expanded across the federal government; however, due to the confidential nature of legal work and the handling of classified materials, you may be required to work primarily on-site or in secure DND facilities.
Job-sharing arrangements may be possible in some locations. Telework may be negotiated for specific tasks such as administrative preparation of documents, research, or correspondence drafting, but regular on-site presence is typically necessary for file management, client interactions, and handling secure legal materials. Discuss flexible options directly with the hiring office, as arrangements vary by legal section and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
