Justice Officer

About the Department of Justice - Court Services

The Court Services Division under Nova Scotia's Department of Justice is committed to delivering outstanding service and ensuring fair, accessible justice administration. It supports various courts, including the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal, Supreme Court (Family Division included), Provincial Court, Small Claims Court, Probate Court, and Bankruptcy Court. These courts function independently to resolve individual cases.

Role Overview

As a Justice Officer, you will undertake diverse administrative duties, acting as the public and client liaison within the court system. Responsibilities include handling payments, managing data entry, processing documents in compliance with policies, and maintaining filing systems. You will also support court scheduling, respond to inquiries, and may call cases or administer oaths in court. Additionally, you might perform quasi-judicial tasks as a Staff Justice of the Peace if appointed.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to inquiries about court matters through multiple communication channels.
• Collect and balance court payments, prepare cash reports, and manage deposits per protocols.
• Process incoming correspondence and documentation in electronic or physical forms.
• Maintain and organize court records, ensuring accurate data entry and proper file management following retention policies.
• Schedule court proceedings and monitor calendars.
• Provide broad administrative assistance and legal system guidance to the public.

Qualifications & Experience

Applicants should possess a minimum of one year of post-secondary education in a relevant discipline with at least three years of related work experience, or a proven equivalent combination. Prior experience in a legal environment is advantageous.

• Proficient computer skills including accurate keyboarding and data entry.
• Adaptability to changing technologies and procedures.
• Effective communication and strong customer service capabilities.
• Experience handling cash and electronic payment methods.
• Ability to interact tactfully and professionally in high-pressure, sensitive, or confrontational situations.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and time management skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, commitment to confidentiality, and capability to work under tight deadlines.

Knowledge of the justice system and government referral services is an asset. Fluency in both English and French, spoken and written, will also be considered favorably.

Selection Process

Competency evaluation may include written exams, standardized tests, oral presentations, interviews, and reference checks.

Education and Experience Equivalency

• Three years post-secondary education plus one year related experience.
• Two years post-secondary education plus two years related experience.
• Four years relevant experience.

Applications missing necessary information or equivalency proof will be excluded from interviews.

Employment Conditions and Benefits

• Permanent full-time position located in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.
• 35-hour workweek, typically 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, subject to operational change.
• Exposure to emotionally challenging situations and the necessity of impartiality in all interactions.
• High demand for accuracy and detail in a complex, high-volume service environment.
• Occasional travel and overtime may be required.
• Subject to enhanced security screening.
• Benefits include defined benefit pension, health, dental, life insurance, disability coverage, vacation, and employee assistance programs.

Additional Information

This role falls under the NSGEU union with pay grade CL 21, offering a bi-weekly salary range of $2013 to $2244. Candidates from equity groups are encouraged to self-identify; accommodations are available upon request to ensure an inclusive recruitment process. Preference is given to current civil service bargaining unit members; external applicants considered only if necessary.

Employment is contingent on favorable background and credential checks. Candidates will be contacted only if selected for interview.