The incumbent is required to perform professional legal work in a Ministry/Department. Duties include appearing in court, providing legal advice and opinions, and drafting legal documents on matters involving the Ministry/Department. Depending on assignment, the incumbent may be required to perform some or the full range of the duties of the position.

• Represents the Ministry/Department in court and before tribunals. 
• Advises on legal issues relating to the administration, interpretation and enforcement of laws relative to the Ministry’s/Department’s operations. 
• Drafts complex legal documents including contracts, leases and agreements. 
• Provides legal opinions and briefs in respect of complex legal issues. 
• Prepares instructions for submission to state central legal agencies on legal matters involving the state. 
• Performs court cases preparation work such as interviewing witnesses, taking depositions and preparing pretrials briefs and draft pleadings for filing. 
• Assists in planning, directing, coordinating and formulating legal policies and programmes of the Ministry/Department. 
• Conducts research and analysis, and reports on legal matters pertinent to the Ministry’s/Department’s operation. 
• Conducts or participates in negotiations/consultations with external/internal parties. 
• Participates in or conducts the review of existing legislation, rules and regulations related to the Ministry/Department and recommends/drafts appropriate amendments. 
• Represents the Ministry/Department on committees and meetings and other fora. 
• Prepares Cabinet/Ministerial Notes, memoranda, letters and other documents on legal matters. 
• Performs other duties as required.

• Considerable knowledge of the Laws of Trinidad and Tobago. 
• Knowledge of legal principles and practices. 
• Knowledge of the laws and regulations pertinent to the Ministry’s/Department’s operations. 
• Knowledge of legal drafting principles and practices. 
• Knowledge of legal research skills and techniques. 
• Knowledge of the court procedures and practices and of rules of evidence.

• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Skill in the use of personal computers. 
• Skill in drafting legal documents/instruments. 
• Skill in negotiation and mediation. 
• Ability to use e-Government technology platforms. 
• Ability to use the internet for research purposes.
• Ability to analyse and interpret laws and legal issues.
• Ability to present and explain statements of fact and the law, and to argue clearly and logically, orally and in writing. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees and members of the public.

• Minimum of four (4) years’ experience as a practicing Attorney at law. 
• Bachelor of Law Degree from a recognised institution. 
• Legal Education Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. 
• Admission to practice law in Trinidad and Tobago.