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Introduction

The Legal Services Branch of the Ministry of Labour is a centre of excellence for labour relations, employment and occupational health and safety law. With respect to labour relations and employment law and critical government initiatives on these matters, the Branch provides a wide range of important legal services to the Ministry of Labour and other government ministries.

There are approximately 50 staff members, comprised mainly of lawyers, several paralegals, articling students and administrative support staff reporting to the Director of the Branch. The Legal Services Branch office is located in Toronto. Staff in the Branch are employed by the Ministry of the Attorney General as are the staff of all legal services branches in government ministries. The Ministry of Labour is, however, the main client.

The lawyers act as the legal advisors to the Minister of Labour and to all levels of the public service in the Ministry. The lawyers litigate on behalf of the Ministry, prosecute offences under MOL statutes, defend orders of Ministry inspectors and officers in administrative appeals, represent the Ministry at Coroner's inquests, act as co-ordinating counsel on legislation projects and generally provide legal support for Ministry policy and operational initiatives.

In addition the branch prides itself on a strong mentorship system that enables newer lawyers to learn from more experienced lawyers. There is also a students committee and an orientation program to welcome students and new lawyers into the branch.

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