Access to justice within large institutions depends on clear advice and fair process. This role supports staff members as they face legal questions tied to their work and rights. A third party shares this opportunity on behalf of the United Nations for a skilled legal professional who values accuracy, balance, and service.
The position sits within the Office of Staff Legal Assistance. The work focuses on guiding staff through the internal justice system with care and independence. The role suits someone who brings strong legal skill and calm judgment to complex matters.
Job Summary
Position: Legal Services Consultant
Company: United Nations
Location: Remote, based in New York time zone preferred
Employment: Contract, fixed term
Contract Duration: 9 months
Job Category: Legal Services and International Law
Role Purpose
The Legal Services Consultant provides timely and high quality legal support to the Office of Staff Legal Assistance and its clients. The work helps staff members understand their rights and duties within the United Nations system.
The consultant works under the guidance of the Chief of the Office of Staff Legal Assistance. While the Office reports to senior leadership, legal support to staff members remains independent and impartial.
Organizational Context
The Office of Staff Legal Assistance supports staff involved in the internal justice system. This includes cases before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal and the United Nations Appeals Tribunal.
The Chief of the Office manages the program and ensures proper service delivery. The consultant supports this mission through direct legal work and research.
Core Legal Responsibilities
The consultant provides legal advice to staff members on issues tied to their terms of appointment. This includes questions on rights, duties, and process.
The role involves representing clients before the United Nations Dispute Tribunal and the United Nations Appeals Tribunal. This includes acting as advocate during hearings and related steps.
Written and oral submissions are a key part of the work. The consultant prepares clear arguments supported by law and past decisions.
Case Review and Resolution Support
The consultant reviews cases to identify those suited for informal settlement. Where possible, the role supports resolution outside formal hearings.
Clients receive guidance through settlement steps. The aim is fair outcome with less strain on all parties.
The role also assists with complex inquiries and formal correspondence tied to ongoing cases.
Legal Research and Analysis
Extensive legal research forms a large part of this role. The consultant studies case law, rules, and past decisions.
Findings are shared through clear written analysis. This research supports advice, submissions, and case strategy.
The consultant also advises on both substantive and procedural questions across a wide range of issues.
Drafting and Quality Review
The consultant supports the Office in preparing accurate submissions. This includes drafting and reviewing documents for clarity and consistency.
Attention to detail matters. Errors or gaps are identified and corrected before filing.
The role helps ensure that all submissions reflect current law and sound reasoning.
Records and Knowledge Management
The consultant assists in maintaining office records. This includes electronic case registers and online systems.
The role also supports the legal precedent database. Accurate records help guide future cases and advice.
Additional Duties
Other tasks may be assigned by the Chief of the Office. These duties support the overall function of the legal assistance program.
Flexibility and readiness to assist across matters are important parts of the role.
Required Education and Experience
An advanced university degree in international law is required. A master’s degree or equivalent meets this requirement.
A first level university degree may be accepted with two additional years of relevant experience.
At least five years of progressive legal experience is required. This must include legal research, analysis, and writing.
Experience as an advocate or litigator before courts or tribunals is required. Prior work in international settings adds value.
Experience with administrative law in an international organization is desirable but not required.
Language Requirements
Fluency in English is required for this role. English is a working language of the United Nations.
Knowledge of French is desirable. Skills in another official United Nations language add value.
Work Arrangement and Duration
This role is fully remote. Work is performed over a nine month contract period.
The schedule follows agreed terms set at the start of the contract.
Ethics and Recruitment Notice
The United Nations does not charge fees at any stage of recruitment. This includes application, interview, or training.
Applicants should not share bank or payment details during the process.
About the United Nations
The United Nations works to support peace, justice, and cooperation across nations. Its staff serve in diverse roles around the world.
Internal justice systems help ensure fairness and accountability within the organization.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official hiring platform. Submit required documents showing legal training and relevant experience. Qualified applicants will be contacted for next steps.
Leave a Comment