Overview As a member of the military, Legal Officers deliver legal services in the fields of operational law, international law, training, military personnel law, and military justice. Responsibilities Provide advice on international and domestic law to the commander of a deployed force Provide general legal advice and services to the commanding officer of a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Base Provide advice on operational legal issues at National Defence Headquarters Represent clients at Court Martial and appear before the Court Martial Appeal Court Represent the interests of the CAF and the Department of National Defence (DND) as a member of a Canadian delegation negotiating international treaties Represent the interests of the CAF and the Department of National Defence (DND) as a member of the military liaison staff at an allied headquarters Deliver training on military law and military justice Work environment Legal Officers are members of the Legal Branch of the Canadian Armed Forces, commanded by the Judge Advocate General (JAG) who serves as the legal adviser to the Governor General, the Minister of National Defence, DND, and the CAF. The Office of the JAG supplies the military justice system with judges, prosecution and defence counsel, and provides opportunities in legislative drafting, pensions, claims and administrative law. Legal Officers may also be appointed to the military bench or the independent Office of the Chief Military Judge. Regular Force officers are assigned to a base after training; Reserve Force officers serve part‑time in a community unit, typically one night per week and some weekends, with the possibility of full‑time employment. Entry plans All Legal Officers must be admitted to the Bar of a Canadian province or territory and be a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial law society. Graduates within the last two years must have practice experience in the last two years (e.g., clinic work or articling in Canadian criminal, international, administrative, labour, employment or human rights law). Graduates older than two years must have practised law on a full‑time basis in Canada; otherwise legal experience may be evaluated by the Office of the JAG. Basic training and military officer qualification training are required before assignment. Training 12 weeks of basic officer training covering military knowledge, leadership principles, CAF regulations, weapons handling, first aid, and a rigorous physical fitness program. Second‑language training may be offered, lasting 2–9 months depending on proficiency. During the first posting, Legal Officers complete all Basic Occupational Training for the Office of the JAG. Opportunities exist for specialised skills through formal courses, on‑job training, and graduate degrees. Part time options This position is available for part‑time employment with the Primary Reserve at certain locations across Canada. Reserve Force members serve part‑time with a military unit in their community, often while attending school or working a civilian job, and are paid during training. They are not required to relocate but may volunteer for deployment on a military mission within or outside Canada. Pay is 92.8 % of Regular Force rates, with a reasonable benefits package and pension plan eligibility. Related careers Public Affairs Officer Military Police Officer Intelligence Officer #J-18808-Ljbffr