About the role

The National Assembly of Belize is recruiting a Parliamentary Counsel, its principal legal adviser. The role gives non-partisan advice on constitutional, legislative, administrative and parliamentary matters, reports to the Clerk of the National Assembly and supervises the Assistant Parliamentary Counsel.

Responsibilities

Advise the Speaker, the President of the Senate, the Clerk, committees and members on constitutional law, Standing Orders, procedure and parliamentary privilege
Review bills, motions, amendments, resolutions and committee reports
Support committees on the scope of inquiries and on draft reports
Liaise with the Attorney General's Ministry, the courts and external legal bodies
Represent the Assembly, or coordinate its representation, in legal proceedings
Lead the Parliamentary Counsel Unit and mentor staff
Contribute to training for Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff

Requirements

Attorney-at-Law admitted to practise in Belize, with 5 to 7 years of practice after qualifying
LLB and Legal Education Certificate
Strong legal drafting, advisory and analytical skills
Integrity, impartiality, sound judgment and leadership
Able to work under pressure during sittings

Preferred qualifications

Knowledge of constitutional law, legislative drafting and parliamentary procedure
Familiarity with Commonwealth parliamentary systems