Practice Management Counsel in Calgary, Canada

Our client, the Law Society of Alberta, is a respected leader in the regulation of the legal profession, committed to serving the public interest and upholding the highest standards of ethics, competence, and professionalism among lawyers. Guided by its strategic vision and mission, the Law Society plays a vital role in maintaining trust and accountability within the legal system.

Through its proactive initiatives and support systems, the Law Society ensures that lawyers are equipped to meet their professional obligations, fostering confidence in the legal community and its practices. Known for its collaborative and innovative approach, the organization works closely with a diverse range of stakeholders, including members of the public, legal professionals, and institutions, to uphold justice and fairness.

If you value integrity, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact on the legal profession, the Law Society offers an environment that is both challenging and rewarding.

Job Description – Practice Management Counsel

In alignment with the Law Society’s vision, mission, and strategic plan, the Practice Management Department works proactively with lawyers in a range of disciplinary and non-disciplinary contexts. The department’s objective is to support lawyers in their practice, enabling them to deliver ethical legal services of the highest standard to the public.

The Department supports the statutory referrals to the Practice Review Committees under Part 3 of the Legal Profession Act; by conducting a review and assessment of a lawyer’s practice. Applicable reinstatement applications are referred to the Practice Review Committee pursuant to Rule 118. The Department also receives referrals from various other departments at the LSA including Trust Safety, Membership and Early Intervention.

Practice Management Counsel conducts on-site and virtual meetings with lawyers, providing guidance and resources to help them anticipate and resolve practice management issues. Essential attributes of the position include excellent communication, time management, organizational, and teamwork skills; sound knowledge of best practice management techniques; and a strong affinity for problem-solving. A desire to assist lawyers in succeeding is critical.

Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site and virtual meetings with lawyers to review their practices and provide recommendations for proactive processes and remedial action.
• Provide resources, advice, and guidance to lawyers.
• Develop recommendations relative to a lawyer’s practice and needs.
• Work collaboratively with internal departments such as Conduct, Counsel, Trust Safety, Membership, and Early Intervention.
• Provide detailed reports and recommendations to Committee members and other Law Society departments.
• Serve as an educational resource for lawyers and legal organizations to identify best practices in lawyer conduct remediation, risk management, and practice support.
• Support a culture of continuous improvement within the department and the organization.
• Mentor and train lawyers through professional relationships.
• Prepare detailed reports and recommendations for the Practice Review Committee and other stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver educational programs and materials related to practice and client management skills.
• Maintain a strong understanding of compliance requirements for Law Society membership.
• Apply statutory provisions, rules, guidelines, and principles of natural justice in practice.
• Monitor and report on measurable goals and objectives.
• Travel throughout Alberta as required (overnight travel approximately two nights every other month).
• Complete other tasks and special projects as assigned.

Education and Professional Skills/Knowledge

• Minimum of 5 years of significant general practice and law firm management experience. Experience as a sole practitioner or in a small law firm environment is an asset.
• Member of, or eligible for membership with, the Law Society of Alberta.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the day-to-day management of a private law practice.
• Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to communicate diplomatically, tactfully, and effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to excel in a busy and demanding environment.
• Interest-based negotiation training, professional coaching training, and/or experience with conducting professional assessments are assets.
• Familiarity with practice management tools, software, and accounting applications used by lawyers.
• Knowledge of current trends and developments in the legal profession and their practical applications.
• Able to plan and prioritize workloads, work under pressure, and adhere to strict deadlines.
• Interested in and capable of growing to meet additional challenges over time.

This is an exclusive search.

The Counsel Network, now a part of Caldwell, is committed to building a diverse legal community through our inclusive business and recruitment practices. We value diversity of experience, expertise, and background, and strive to eliminate barriers historically encountered by marginalized groups. We recognize that an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce benefits and enriches both the legal profession and the greater community.

To apply for this position: caldwell.thriveapp.ly/job/1212

For more information or to apply for this position, contact:
Meaghan Loughry, Consultant
mloughry@caldwell.com
647.417.4720
Connect with me on LinkedIn

Shetin Adams, Associate
sadams@caldwell.com
403.444.1768
Connect with me on LinkedIn

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