A. NATURE AND SCOPE: The position of Legal Counsel is required to provide professional, efficient, and ethical legal support services within the Ministry of Public Service and Constitutional and Political Reform and Religious Affairs (MPSCPRRA), ensuring that the Ministry carries out all its legal functions and obligations. The incumbent leads the drafting of legislation, regulations, policies, orders and instructions, and the process of negotiation, review, and adjustment to the constitutional text in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Ministry. The Legal Counsel operates under the direct supervision of the Director, Good Governance and in close coordination with the Secretariat of the Minister of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform and Religious Affairs. The incumbent provides legal advisory services to the Public Service, Judicial and Legal Services, Security Services, Election and Boundaries and Integrity Commissions; as well and the People’s Constitutional Committee, various other committees, ad hoc working groups and task forces to aid in the fulfilment of their mandate. The incumbent assist with the preparation of reports, case files, study papers on domestic and comparative laws and Cabinet Submissions. The officer supervises staff in the Unit and is expected to oversee their development in all the requisite specialist areas. In addition, the incumbent must display the communication skills required to interact with senior and junior personnel within the Public Service as well as representatives of outside agencies and organizations.

In accordance with Belize Constitution (Public Service) Regulations, 2014, Finance and Audit (Reform) act, Financial and Stores Orders and any instructions issued from time to time.

Recognized Bachelor of Law Degree (LLB) or equivalent qualification plus Certificate of Legal Education (CLE). An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Law, Political Science/Constitutional Law would be considered an asset.

Extensive knowledge of the Belize Constitution and Electoral laws and comprehensive knowledge of government and administrative procedures, rules, and regulations with the ability to rapidly understand and implement the requirements of relevant legislation, with proper consideration of the implications and outcomes of such administration. Must demonstrate impartiality and clear decisiveness in making legal and administrative decisions, soundness of judgement and clarity in issuing directive. Must be able to communicate effectively. Specialized proficiency in the use of computer applications for word processing, spreadsheet development, electronic form creation and related. Plus At least five (5) years’ experience working as an attorney-at-law having experience in constitutional law, two (2) of which should include experience at the management level or being in a position of responsible charge. Experience supervising and managing professional staff and being a trusted resource as a member of a senior level executive team