Legal Officer  at The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb)

Position Overview:

• The Legal Officer in an ADR institution plays a vital role in supporting and facilitating alternative dispute resolution services. This role involves assisting in the administration of ADR cases, ensuring compliance with the institution's procedures, conducting legal research, and supporting the resolution of disputes through various ADR mechanisms. The Legal Officer will work closely with the ADR/Arbitration Administrator, arbitrators, mediators, parties to disputes, and other ADR professionals to ensure the efficient and fair resolution of cases.

Key Responsibilities:

Case Administration and Management 

• Administer and oversee cases referred for arbitration, mediation, and other ADR processes, ensuring compliance with established protocols and timelines.
• Coordinate and manage pre-hearing, hearing, and post-hearing activities, including scheduling sessions, preparing case files, and communicating with parties.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all case proceedings and documentation.

Legal Research and Advisory

• Conduct legal research to support case management, arbitrators, and mediators, providing insights into relevant laws, regulations, and case precedents.
• Prepare legal opinions, reports, and memoranda on complex legal and procedural issues, advising ADR practitioners and internal teams as needed.

Drafting and Reviewing Documents 

• Draft, review, and edit case-related documents, including terms of reference, procedural orders, notices, and awards, to ensure clarity, legality, and adherence to institutional standards.
• Assist in the development and update of ADR templates, guidelines, and protocols to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of ADR processes.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

• Serve as a primary point of contact for parties, counsel, and arbitrators, providing timely information and assistance throughout the ADR process.
• Facilitate effective communication between parties and neutrals, ensuring that each participant is informed of case developments and procedural requirements.

Policy Development and Compliance 

• Support the development and implementation of institutional policies, procedures, and best practices to improve ADR services and maintain compliance with relevant regulations.
• Monitor and enforce compliance with ADR agreements, institutional guidelines, and applicable laws, addressing any violations or breaches promptly.

Requirements

• 3—5 years of post-call experience in dispute resolution, legal practice, or case management, with specific experience in ADR institutions preferred.
• Strong knowledge of ADR processes, including arbitration, mediation, negotiation, and restorative justice.
• Excellent legal research, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional organizational and case management skills, with the ability to handle multiple cases and prioritize tasks.
• Proficient in communication and stakeholder management, with a professional and client- focused approach.