Description
Company overview
Over fifty years ago, a group of law students wanted to change access to legal services for the many people experiencing poverty and/or homelessness in Calgary. These students saw a growing need for legal support and wanted to help people experiencing the most significant barriers and vulnerable circumstances. Pre-dating Legal Aid Alberta, Calgary Legal Guidance (CLG) was created through their vision in 1972 and is known as the first pro bono legal clinic in Alberta. CLG plays an important role in Alberta’s justice sector and increases access to justice through free legal programs and services to thousands of people every year. All programs and services are designed to support Calgarians who face financial and other barriers to accessing legal services. As a non-profit organization, CLG offers a wide range of legal support including legal information, advice, and assistance in areas not provided by Legal Aid Alberta.
The role
The Social Benefits Advocacy Program (SBAP) provides advice and assistance to those facing various issues with the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) Program, and on a case-by-case basis for existing clients, Alberta Works Income Support Program. The SBAP Program assists with issues including benefit denial, reduction, cut off, and assessed overpayments, as well as guidance and representation at appeals before the Citizens' Appeal Panel when merit and capacity exists to do so. The program also thoroughly explains the law, regulations and policies surrounding various benefits and related government systems.
The SBAP Program Lawyer reviews incoming inquiries; oversees client, partnership and medical interactions, and; provides direction on all active program case files. The SBAP Program Lawyer is responsible for and provides direct oversight of the work of all SBAP staff including Advocates, Legal Assistants, students and volunteers related to active client case management. The SBAP Program Lawyer ensures program services are always client focused, trauma-informed, and meet emerging and ever-changing community needs.
Primary functions and accountabilities
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Screen all incoming inquiries and approve, where appropriate, matters for entry into program.
- Responsible for managing an overall appropriate case load of clients to meet program targets and objectives.
- Determine parameters of legal services, providing oversight and direction of file engagement from initial client meetings to official file closure procedure.
- Assign work to SBAP advocates, CLG articling students, summer students, and volunteers where appropriate and capacity allows.
- Provide direction and oversee CLG representation of appeal matters before the Citizens' Appeal Panel, where merit exists to engage.
- Provide legal opinion on the merits of Judicial Review of Citizens' Appeal Panel decisions through the Court of King's Bench where appropriate.
- Provide limited scope representation, on a case-by-case basis, regarding benefit issues where capacity exists, involving students where necessary.
- Ensure program data is routinely and systemically collected and presented in line with funder requirements and expectations.
- Pivot service and program parameters in face of evolving government policy, regulation, systems and legislative changes.
- Ensure positive community partnerships are maintained and new connections formed, to aid in the mutual benefit of clients and ensure accuracy of referrals.
- Attend CLG Staff meetings, staff development activities, and any other meetings as required.
- Ensure client documentation including case notes and documents are completed as per CLG practice guidelines.
- Apply trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and intersectional frameworks when communicating and problem solving with program clients.
- Remain current in disability management trends and related legislation.
- Demonstrate a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and ability to collaborate with Indigenous program staff to support the unique needs of Indigenous clients accessing the SBAP.
- Attend various meetings and workshops as a representative of CLG as required.
- Provide public legal education at workshops and information sessions as required.
- Assist in the creation of legal education materials to support individuals navigating Alberta’s disability benefits.
- Work in close collaboration with the Managing Counsel, SBAP Advocates, and Legal Assistant to provide high-quality legal support to clients.
The candidate
The successful candidate must possess the following skills, experience and qualifications:
- A law degree from an accredited post-secondary institution and membership or eligible for membership as a lawyer in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta is preferred.
- 3+ years’ experience in Administrative Law or a related field.
- Ability to communicate and problem-solve with clients from various backgrounds, identities and experiences, including low-income adults presenting with chronic physical and/or mental health conditions.
- A collaborative approach to case work with a focus on client experience and reducing barriers to service delivery.
- Demonstrable skills and experience in the areas of stakeholder engagement, communications and legal/disability expertise.
- Superior written and verbal communication skills are required.
- Relevant experience in administrative law and attending tribunal hearings.
- Previous experience in a management or service coordination role.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to exercise excellent judgment, discretion, and confidentiality with sensitive matters.
- Proficiency in Windows-based software and client management technology.
- The successful candidate must satisfactorily complete a Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search (PICVSS).
What we offer
Salary range is $85,000 - $110,000 per annum and will be commensurate with years since bar call and/or professional experience. A comprehensive benefits package is also provided.
Calgary Legal Guidance (CLG) is proud of our fun, diverse, professional, and energetic workplace culture. We offer a healthy and positive career-life balance that values the contribution of all staff. We invite all qualified candidates to apply.
Please forward your resume and cover letter as a single PDF document to the attention of the Hiring Team via email at careers@clg.ab.ca no later than Monday, November 2, 2026.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those being considered for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.
