Discrimination and Harassment Counsel

About the DHC Program

The DHC program reflects the Law Society’s commitment to equity, human rights, diversity, and maintaining public confidence in the legal profession. The Team Lead plays a key role in advancing this mandate by combining hands-on client support with program leadership, collaboration, and strategic oversight.

The appointment follows a recruitment process conducted by the Equity and Indigenous Affairs Committee and is for a term of up to three years, with eligibility for renewal.

This is a part-time, province-wide role designed to complement an existing legal practice or professional responsibilities.

Role Overview

The DHC, Team Lead provides independent, trauma-informed, and confidential support to:

• Members of the public

• Lawyers and paralegals

• Licensing candidates

• Law students

• Other individuals engaging with the legal profession

In addition to managing individual matters, the Team Lead supports the overall effectiveness and strategic direction of the DHC program, including collaboration with other DHCs and the Discrimination & Harassment Educator.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide confidential legal guidance and options to individuals alleging discrimination or harassment by a lawyer or paralegal.

• Deliver culturally responsive and trauma-informed advice.

• Identify systemic discrimination issues and recommend improvements to policies, programs, and services.

• Support program coordination and leadership within the DHC framework.

• Apply alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation and complaint resolution strategies.

• Maintain knowledge of relevant legislation, jurisprudence, and professional conduct standards.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Licensed lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

• Minimum 15 years’ experience in human rights law, employment law, or a related field.

• Demonstrated leadership experience in program delivery and file management.

• Strong background in equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI), intersectionality, and accessibility.

• Experience working respectfully and effectively with equity-seeking and marginalized communities.

• Knowledge of Ontario human rights legislation and case law.

• Familiarity with Law Society complaints and discipline procedures.

• Understanding of the Rules of Professional Conduct and Paralegal Rules of Conduct.

• Knowledge of Indigenous legal perspectives and Indigenous communities.

• Proven experience in mediation, investigations, and dispute resolution processes.

• Excellent written, oral, and presentation skills.

• Bilingualism (English and French) is considered an asset.

Applicants consent to a regulatory history clearance review as part of the appointment process.

Working Arrangement

This position follows a hybrid work model, with flexibility between home and office settings. Specific details will be shared with shortlisted candidates.

Commitment to Equity and Accessibility

The Law Society of Ontario is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and barrier-free workplace in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accommodation is available throughout the recruitment process upon request.

If you require accommodation to apply, please contact hr@lso.ca or call 416-947-3475.